Israel’s government has cleared the way for 22 new Jewish settlements in the West Bank—marking one of the largest expansions in recent history. Israeli ministers, including Defence Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, claim many of these settlements had previously existed as unauthorized outposts but will now be legitimized under Israeli law. The expansion is seen by the Israeli government as a protective measure against Palestinian statehood, which they argue could threaten Israeli security.
This move has been met with fierce criticism. The Palestinian presidency labeled it a “dangerous escalation” that undermines hopes for peace. Additionally, the Israeli anti-settlement group Peace Now warned that these new settlements could significantly alter the landscape of the West Bank and deepen the ongoing occupation.
Since the 1967 Middle East war, Israel has established approximately 160 settlements, accommodating around 700,000 Jews in areas Palestinians envision for their future state. As tensions continue to rise, the debate surrounding settlements remains a central issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This move has been met with fierce criticism. The Palestinian presidency labeled it a “dangerous escalation” that undermines hopes for peace. Additionally, the Israeli anti-settlement group Peace Now warned that these new settlements could significantly alter the landscape of the West Bank and deepen the ongoing occupation.
Since the 1967 Middle East war, Israel has established approximately 160 settlements, accommodating around 700,000 Jews in areas Palestinians envision for their future state. As tensions continue to rise, the debate surrounding settlements remains a central issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
