The Israeli parliament has taken a controversial first step toward annexing the occupied West Bank — a move that has sparked outrage across the Arab world.

According to Arab media reports, the 120-member Knesset narrowly passed the annexation bill with 25 votes in favor and 24 against. The legislation has now been sent to the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee for further review before any final approval.

The decision has drawn sharp condemnation from regional powers. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement rejecting Israel’s “settlement and expansionist ambitions,” calling the move a clear violation of international law.

Qatar also criticized the Israeli parliament’s action, describing it as an attempt to “strip Palestinians of their legitimate rights.” The Qatari Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution and urged the United Nations to step in and prevent Israel from pursuing what it called an “expansionist plan.”

The vote took place as U.S. Vice President JD Vance visited Israel, aiming to strengthen the fragile ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the U.S. President has reiterated that Washington will not support any Israeli attempt to annex the occupied West Bank — a stance that further highlights the growing tension between Israel’s far-right government and its Western allies.