New York, 2025-09-26 – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly made a significant pledge to Arab and Muslim leaders, assuring them he would not allow Israel to annex the West Bank. The promise was delivered during a closed-door meeting held at the United Nations earlier this week, a development that could reshape future U.S. engagement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The revelation, first reported by Politico, comes amidst persistent international efforts to foster peace and stability in the Middle East. Trump's statement signals a potentially critical shift or clarification in his approach to one of the region's most contentious issues, distinguishing it from some policies pursued during his previous administration.

The "Trump 21-Point Plan for Peace" Unveiled

According to sources cited by Politico, the pledge was presented as part of a broader proposal dubbed the "Trump 21-point plan for peace in the Mideast." Steve Witkoff, described as a special envoy for peace missions, provided some details on this comprehensive initiative on Wednesday, indicating that the plan was "presented in Gaza." This suggests a direct engagement with the Palestinian territory and its leadership, underscoring the gravity of the diplomatic outreach.

While the full scope of the 21-point plan remains undisclosed, the specific assurance regarding West Bank annexation addresses a core concern for many Arab and Muslim nations. The international community largely views Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal under international law and an obstacle to a two-state solution. Annexation, if pursued, would be widely condemned and could destabilize an already volatile region.

Historical Context and Regional Stakes

The status of the West Bank has long been a central flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Following the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel occupied the territory, which Palestinians envision as the heartland of their future independent state. The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank has steadily eroded the viability of a contiguous Palestinian state, leading to deep skepticism among Palestinians and strong criticism from most world powers.

During his previous term, Trump's administration took several actions that were seen as highly favorable to Israel, including recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital and moving the U.S. embassy there, and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. These moves were often met with condemnation from Palestinian leadership and many Arab states, who viewed them as undermining prospects for a negotiated peace.

The Abraham Accords, facilitated by the Trump administration, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations without a resolution to the Palestinian issue. However, the prospect of West Bank annexation remained a significant sticking point, with some signatory nations explicitly stating their opposition. This new pledge by Trump, therefore, could be seen as an effort to mend ties or signal a more balanced approach should he return to office.

International Reactions and Future Implications

The promise not to allow West Bank annexation is likely to be met with a mixed reception. Palestinian leaders, while cautiously optimistic about any statement opposing annexation, will likely seek concrete actions and further details on the broader peace plan. Arab and Muslim nations, who have consistently advocated for Palestinian rights and a two-state solution, may view this as a positive diplomatic overture, potentially opening doors for renewed dialogue.

Conversely, the statement could elicit concern among some Israeli political factions, particularly those aligned with the settler movement, who advocate for further annexation of parts of the West Bank. The specific wording "won't let Israel annex" also raises questions about the mechanisms Trump envisions to prevent such a move, and whether it implies a departure from Israel's sovereign decision-making or a return to more traditional U.S. diplomatic pressure.

The timing of this announcement, made at the United Nations, underscores its global significance. It projects a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy direction in the Middle East, particularly relevant as geopolitical realignments continue to unfold in the region. Analysts suggest that any concrete move to prevent annexation could significantly bolster the standing of moderate voices and potentially revive moribund peace negotiations, offering a glimmer of hope for a lasting resolution to one of the world's most enduring conflicts.

The coming weeks will likely see further details emerge about the "Trump 21-point plan" and the specific commitments made. The international community will be closely watching for how this pledge translates into actionable policy and its impact on the delicate balance of power and prospects for peace in the Middle East.