Introduction to the Issue

The question of what would happen to the Arab population in Judea and Samaria, should Israel annex these territories, has been a subject of significant debate and concern. This essay explores the potential consequences, focusing particularly on the treatment of Arab citizens and their rights.

Israeli Policies and the Ethical Dilemma

Michael Hudson, an expert on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, outlines the likely scenarios and ethical dilemmas surrounding the annexation of Judea and Samaria. Hudson notes that granting citizenship to Palestinians in the occupied territories would be politically unsound for Israel, as it could jeopardize the country's Jewish majority status. Thus, the potential actions of Israel, ranging from deportation to outright ethnic cleansing, are a source of deep concern.

Deportation and De facto Ethnic Cleansing

One possible scenario is that Israel could attempt to deport the Arab population from the occupied territories. However, many Palestinians have deep roots in their homes and are unwilling to be displaced. Hudson suggests that Israel’s actions since 1948, when they initially stole Palestine, indicate a pattern of treating Palestinians as a hostile population, reminiscent of practices of ethnic cleansing.

Another concerning scenario is the outright murder of the Arab population, though this is more likely to be considered a stretch by most observers. Nonetheless, it remains a critical point of discussion and potential outcome.

A Cautious Outlook on Recognition and Citizenship

There is a cautious prediction that if the Arab residents of the West Bank behave as proper citizens, they might eventually be granted Israeli citizenship. However, this process is contingent upon their acceptance of a peace agreement and a willingness to forego claims for a state within Israel’s borders. Hudson suggests that if the residents continue to engage in hostile activities, they will face continued treatment as a hostile population, leading to a state of war.

Arab Citizens and Their Rights

The position of Arab citizens within the Israeli state is complex and has been the subject of much debate. It is unlikely that any Arab in the West Bank would receive Israeli citizenship, given their rejection of integration and their understandable fear of becoming a minority in an Arab-majority state. Investing Security Services, based on a neighboring Gulf state's behavior, suggests that Arab citizens in Israeli-occupied territories may be absorbed by Saudi Arabia as natural Arab citizens. This scenario, however, is speculative and depends on many variables.

A Potential Path Forward

Ultimately, if there is a genuine and sincere arrangement between the State of Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), the 3 million Arab residents of the West Bank would likely be offered a range of options:

Part of them could be offered the chance to leave and move to a new, state-run Arab country east of the Jordan River, becoming full citizens of this new state. Others might be offered residency or 'outer-citizenship' status in the new Arab country east of the Jordan River.

Regardless of the option chosen, their lives would likely proceed relatively smoothly, as long as they abide by the laws and regulations of the new state or their continued residence within Israel.

Conclusion

The question of what would happen to the Arab population in Judea and Samaria if Israel annexes these territories is a complex and ethically fraught issue. The treatment of these citizens and the implications for their rights are critical considerations that require careful and thoughtful deliberation. As negotiations continue, it is crucial to ensure that the rights and dignity of all residents are protected and respected.