Palestinians, Arab countries, Israeli anti-occupation groups, and the UK have condemned new steps approved by Israel's security cabinet for the occupied West Bank, stating they amount to de facto annexation. Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced changes that would ease Jewish settlers' takeover of Palestinian land. All settlements are considered illegal under international law.
The measures, soon awaiting the signature of Israel's top military commander for the West Bank, aim to increase Israeli control over the territory regarding property laws and planning. These changes come three days before a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington.
The cabinet's announcements signal an increase in pressure on Palestinians, with fears of deceit and forgery in real estate transactions. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas labeled the measures as dangerous and an attempt to legalize land confiscation, calling for immediate intervention from the U.S. and UN.
This situation escalates existing tensions, as settlements in the West Bank expanded at an unprecedented rate last year. The measures include repealing restrictions on land sales to Jews, a move described by the Israeli government as correcting a racist distortion. However, Palestinian citizens perceive it as a threat to their rights and land.
Internationally, the UK's condemnation highlights the growing alarm regarding unilateral actions impacting the geographic structure of Palestine. The collective statements from multiple Arab nations express concern over Israel's policies, emphasizing the risks they pose for stability and peace in the region.
The measures, soon awaiting the signature of Israel's top military commander for the West Bank, aim to increase Israeli control over the territory regarding property laws and planning. These changes come three days before a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington.
The cabinet's announcements signal an increase in pressure on Palestinians, with fears of deceit and forgery in real estate transactions. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas labeled the measures as dangerous and an attempt to legalize land confiscation, calling for immediate intervention from the U.S. and UN.
This situation escalates existing tensions, as settlements in the West Bank expanded at an unprecedented rate last year. The measures include repealing restrictions on land sales to Jews, a move described by the Israeli government as correcting a racist distortion. However, Palestinian citizens perceive it as a threat to their rights and land.
Internationally, the UK's condemnation highlights the growing alarm regarding unilateral actions impacting the geographic structure of Palestine. The collective statements from multiple Arab nations express concern over Israel's policies, emphasizing the risks they pose for stability and peace in the region.
