Jordan calls UNSC to react against Netanyahu's plans

By Laith al-Jounadi

AMMAN, Jordan (AA) - Jordan has called on the United Nations Security Council permanent member states to react "promptly and effectively" against the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's intention to annex parts of occupied West Bank in case he is re-elected.

Ayman Safadi, Jordan's foreign minister, held a meeting on Thursday in Amman with the ambassadors of the United Nations Security Council permanent member-states -- the U.S., the U.K., Russia, France and China -- according to a statement by the ministry.

Safadi confirmed during the meeting that "the UN Security Council along with the international community must adopt a clear position to renounce Netanyahu's plan".

He stressed that "such move is a grave breach of international law and UN resolutions and a dangerous escalation that destroys the basis of the peace process and might push the region towards violence".

Safadi told the ambassadors the "catastrophic" repercussions of such Israeli move which would blow up the whole peace process.

"These Israeli unilateral steps pose a threat to security and stability in the region and the entire world," he added.

Earlier on Tuesday, Netanyahu promised during an electoral rally that if he wins general elections, which takes place in Sept. 17, he would annex parts of occupied lands in the West Bank including north of the Dead Sea and Jordan Valley.

Netanyahu's announcement caused a wide range of international condemnations by Arab states, Islamic states and many other countries.

Netanyahu hopes to win the upcoming elections to avoid being prosecuted over corruption cases.

*Ahmed Asmar contributed to this report from Ankara