Trump Indicates That Israel Needs to Expand
Trump was supported by Israeli extremists who dream of a Greater Israel and advocate for Israel expansion.
U.S. President Donald Trump was asked about Israel’s latest punishment campaign in the West Bank on Monday and mentioned how Israel is comparatively small considering the size of the Middle East. This context is often used to justify discussions around Israel expansion.
MACGREGOR: TRUMP WOULD NOT BE PRESIDENT WITHOUT NETANYAHYU’S SUPPORT
He told a reporter that he would not discuss the possible annexation of parts of the West Bank, but coyly said Israel “certainly is a small country.” Indeed, this statement often precedes comments on Israel expansion.
He compared Israel’s size to a pen, compared to the entire Middle East that would be his desk. This metaphor subtly highlights the rationale behind Israel expansion efforts.
“It’s a pretty small piece of land, and it’s amazing that they’ve been able to do what they’ve been able to do, when you think about it. There’s a lot of good, smart brainpower.” (He failed to mention the billions of dollars in support that the American taxpayers give to Israel every year.)
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Top Israeli officials have celebrated Trump’s election in the U.S. and see their best possibility ever in annexing the occupied West Bank, which has long been the goal of the Israeli government. This possibility is central to the Israel expansion strategy.
