Jordan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates condemned Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's comments instructing government staff to work on applying Israel's sovereignty over the occupied West Bank. Smotrich's statements were deemed a violation of international law and the Palestinian right to an independent state. The Ministry called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions and protect the Palestinian people. Smotrich has been vocal about rejecting the establishment of a Palestinian state and supporting the expansion of illegal settlements. Palestinian presidency spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh stated that Smotrich's comments indicate Israel's plans to control the West Bank in 2025, disregarding international law.