By Matt Underwood Trump says he won’t let Netanyahu annex the West Bank, a statement that, frankly, lands with a resounding thud in the current political climate. It’s a statement that immediately triggers a cascade of questions, skepticism, and, let’s be honest, a healthy dose of cynicism. The very idea of Trump drawing a line in the sand is complicated by his history, his financial interests, and the general perception of him as a negotiator who operates on a very specific – and often self-serving – set of terms.
The first thought that pops into your head, right? Is this really about stopping annexation, or is it about the terms of the deal? The hints are everywhere, whispering about a potential Trump West Bank Hotel & Golf Course, or, put less subtly, a chance for a sizable donation to a charity. The suspicion is that if Netanyahu plays along and makes the right “offer,” then the stance against annexation might suddenly vanish. This potential for a quid pro quo hangs heavy in the air, coloring any pronouncements from him.
He seems to have this tendency to jump on situations and say he will solve them immediately; for instance, he claims he could have the war in Ukraine solved in a day or two. He also likes to sell arms. He recently approved an $18 billion arms package, including $6 billion just a few days ago. It’s almost as if he’s more invested in the revenue potential than the actual resolution of conflicts. Biden had previously put conditions on military assistance, but those were apparently removed during Trump’s previous term.
We all know that the West Bank is already pretty much swallowed up by Israel, with settlements that are, by international law, illegal. Saying he won’t let Netanyahu annex it is interesting, especially since some see that as an issue for years now. You can’t help but wonder if his real concern is missing out on a piece of the action. After all, there were reports of an AI-generated video of what a future Gaza could look like under a Trump administration. Imagine: hotels, casinos, and a golden statue of the man himself. Is this merely an empty gesture?
The history is not particularly encouraging. Trump’s track record is filled with contradictions and inconsistencies. He is a guy who has made a name for himself in the profit-driven, deal-making world. He often takes a position until there’s something in it for him. If the right incentive presents itself, the calculus can quickly change. He gave Israel plenty of support through arms sales and assistance. It’s hard to take him at face value when the bottom line often seems to be the ultimate motivator.
It’s also important to remember that his views on these issues shift. One day he’s against annexation, the next he’s open to it. He’s a master of playing the populist card, catering to whatever sentiment suits his immediate needs. The public’s perception of him is shaped by his handling of these affairs. He needs popularity for 2026. So, expect more of these kinds of statements in the coming months. He’s not afraid to flip the script, especially if it suits his political agenda. He is very transactual.
In the end, his words are less about genuine conviction and more about the art of the deal. And the biggest deals, as we all know, often require the greasing of palms. He can’t be taken at face value. It is difficult to believe him when it comes to anything positive. His statements are often followed by “endlessly empty and meaningless bullshit.”