West Bank annexation could also undermine Israeli alliances with Egypt and Jordan and alienate European military partners who have assisted U.S. missile defense efforts, leaving Washington alone to shoulder the burden.

US President-elect Donald Trump made it clear in private conversations that annexation of areas in the West Bank is “off the table,” people familiar with the matter indicated Sunday. The Jerusalem Post has learned that senior Republican officials have cautioned Israel against pursuing annexation as Trump prepares to take office on January 20.

Officials on all sides have cautioned that key details must still be worked out. But there is a general sense of optimism that has been lacking for many months.