Among other things, Netanyahu said he wants to introduce "Israeli sovereignty" into the Jordan Valley and across the northern part of the Dead Sea.
Why is the statement coming now?- Benjamin Netanyahu is fighting for his political survival. In a week, the election in Israel - a new election announced because Netanyahu failed to form government after the April election last spring. By promising to annex the Jordan Valley, he hopes to win right-wing voters whose support he will need if his Likud Party is to be able to form a coalition government. Netanyahu says the peace plan that US President Donald Trump is expected to present shortly is a "historic opportunity" to take these measures. Netanyahu made a similar statement two days before last spring's election.
Shortly after the statement, several international news agencies reported that he had to cancel a campaign meeting, the reason being unconfirmed information on rocket attacks from Gaza.
The statement has been condemned by Saudi Arabia calling the play a "dangerous escalation" of the Palestinian conflict.
What other reactions did the statement elicit?- Israel's UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric calls the proposal devastating for the peace talks. The EU, too, is sharply critical, saying in a statement that the proposal would undermine the viability of a two-state solution and the prospect of a lasting peace. Palestinian diplomat Saeb Erekat says an annexation would "bury every chance for peace".
It is currently unclear exactly how much of the Jordan Valley that Netanyahu really intends.
What is the status he is talking about today?- The Jordan Valley constitutes about a third of the West Bank, which Israel occupied in connection with the 1967 Six Day War, along with East Jerusalem, Gaza and the Syrian Golan Heights. East Jerusalem was annexed in 1980 and the Golan Heights were annexed in 1981. According to international law, the occupation is considered illegal - but under Donald Trump, the United States has recognized Israel's rule over the Golan and East Jerusalem. It is unclear what will happen to the Palestinians living in the Jordan Valley if the area is annexed.
Will the proposal become a reality?- It will come under fierce election movement - the rally ahead of the second election within six months. Opinion surveys point to a result similar to that of last spring. Netanyahu who is being investigated for corruption charges will do his best to form a right-wing coalition - but everything points to the fact that the discussions that will take place after the election are crucial.