UN spokesman pressed on ‘de facto annexation’ of occupied West Bank

In February 2026, Al Jazeera pressed the UN Secretary-General's spokesman regarding the UN's response to Israel's actions in the occupied West Bank. The questioning occurred amidst increasing criticism of Israel's new measures that tighten its control over the territory. Al Jazeera specifically inquired about the UN's plans to deter Israel, given concerns over what some perceive as a "de facto annexation" of the West Bank. The news report highlights the international scrutiny Israel faces regarding its policies and actions in the occupied territory and the pressure on the UN to take action. The core issue revolves around Israel's increasing control and the international community's response.