A senior official in the government commented to Israel National News regarding a report according to which the American administration sent a message to Israel that the transfer of powers over the Civil Administration and the coordination of government operations to Minister Bezalel Smotrich is not acceptable and will be considered as annexation from their perspective.

"It is unthinkable that the US interferes in the division of responsibilities of the Israeli government. After decades in which the settlers of Judea and Samaria live under a military regime, the time has come to provide equal citizenship and proper services to the settlers as well. There are coalition agreements and all the party leaders will insist that they be fulfilled and so it will be," the source said.