Israel's hardline finance minister announced plans on Wednesday to significantly expand three Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, with approvals granted for over 2,000 new homes. This move is viewed by Palestinians and a majority of the international community as a major impediment to peace and a violation of international law.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who exercises authority over aspects of Israel's civilian administration in the West Bank, stated that a planning committee approved the construction of 2,162 new housing units. These include 1,006 units for a new settlement near Jerusalem, 922 near the Palestinian city of Nablus, and 234 near Hebron. Smotrich, an ultranationalist who has faced international sanctions for alleged incitement to violence against Palestinians, described the expansion as a continuation of building "the Land of Israel in practice."
Smotrich further asserted in a statement that the new homes would serve to "strengthen our hold on the land, reinforce Israel's security, and establish clear facts on the ground that prevent the creation of an Arab terror state in the heart of the country." He did not specify a timeline for the commencement of construction. Since assuming his ministerial role three years ago, Smotrich has actively worked to enhance Israeli control and presence in the West Bank, opposing the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The expansion occurs within the context of a right-wing Israeli government that has overseen a substantial growth in settlements and the establishment of new ones in the West Bank. Palestinians aspire to establish an independent state encompassing the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. Approximately half a million Israeli settlers reside in the West Bank, home to around three million Palestinians.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' office condemned the announcement, warning that Israel's "provocative" policies risk escalating regional violence and urged the United States to intervene. The international community largely considers Israeli settlements in the West Bank illegal under international law and a significant obstacle to a two-state solution.
