Israel’s Smotrich declares ‘revolution’ in West Bank settlement expansion
Summary
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced a large expansion of settlements beyond the West Bank into other areas like the Negev and Galilee. The Israeli government approved building 13 new settlements in the West Bank, which critics say will strengthen Israel’s control over Palestinian land and hurt hopes for a two-state solution.Key Facts
- Israel plans to expand illegal settlements beyond the West Bank into the Negev and Galilee regions.
- The Israeli cabinet approved 13 new settlements in the central West Bank along key routes connecting Palestinian cities.
- Israeli officials say the settlements will help secure strategic areas, especially near Route 60 and the Jordan Valley.
- Palestinians warn this expansion will isolate East Jerusalem, a key area for a future Palestinian state.
- Since 2022, under Prime Minister Netanyahu’s far-right government, settlement expansion and funding have increased dramatically.
- More than 500,000 Israeli settlers live in West Bank settlements and 250,000 in East Jerusalem, all considered illegal under international law.
- There has been a rise in settler violence against Palestinians, including attacks on villages, destruction of property, and seizure of resources.
- In May alone, 1,659 attacks by Israeli forces and settlers were recorded, with settlers responsible for 551, alongside frequent home demolitions.
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