Israeli FM cites Bible to justify West Bank settlements

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar invoked biblical texts to assert Israel's right to settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, challenging international consensus. Speaking at a Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast event, Saar declared, "I know of no better-documented right of any nation over its homeland than we have over this land." He contended that Israeli settlements in Palestinian territory, occupied by Israel, are "compatible with international law."

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I know of no better-documented right of any nation over its homeland than we have over this land.

Saar based his argument on the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which promised a "national home" for the Jewish people in Palestine. He asserted that this declaration, later adopted by the League of Nations, provides strong evidence for Israel's claim to the land. "Thus, in international law itself, the most compelling evidence is found to answer the question: Who owns this State? It belongs to us," Saar stated, adding, "But I have better proof: better proof is the Bible." He referenced King David's conquest of Jerusalem and its establishment as his kingdom's capital.

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The Balfour Declaration gave the land of Israel on both sides of the Jordan River to the people of Israel.

Saar's justification stands in direct opposition to international law. The Fourth Geneva Convention and numerous UN resolutions consider Israeli settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem illegal. These legal frameworks stipulate that an occupying power cannot transfer its civilian population into the territory it occupies.

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Thus, in international law itself, the most compelling evidence is found to answer the question: Who owns this State? It belongs to us.

Discussing relations with European countries, Saar noted that most are pro-Palestinian and are distancing themselves from the United States. He expressed concern over this trend, stating that a strong transatlantic alliance benefits the free world. Saar views European nations as "natural allies" of Israel in the Middle East, lamenting their current stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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But I have better proof: better proof is the Bible.