The article text:
Israeli ministers have confirmed the approval of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, representing the largest series of expansions seen in decades. Many of these settlements have already been established as outposts, previously constructed without governmental authorization; however, they will now be legitimized under Israeli law. Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich both support the initiative, arguing that it serves to prevent the potential establishment of a Palestinian state that they believe could jeopardize Israel's security.
The Palestinian presidency swiftly condemned the move, labeling it a "dangerous escalation" in the ongoing conflict. The anti-settlement organization Peace Now also criticized the developments, stating that these new settlements would significantly alter the landscape of the West Bank and intensify the ongoing occupation.
Since the West Bank and East Jerusalem came under Israeli control following the 1967 Middle East conflict, Israel has constructed approximately 160 settlements that are home to around 700,000 Jewish residents. The construction and expansion of these settlements remain one of the most fractious issues between Israel and the Palestinians, who view the land as critical for a future sovereign state.
Israeli ministers have confirmed the approval of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, representing the largest series of expansions seen in decades. Many of these settlements have already been established as outposts, previously constructed without governmental authorization; however, they will now be legitimized under Israeli law. Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich both support the initiative, arguing that it serves to prevent the potential establishment of a Palestinian state that they believe could jeopardize Israel's security.
The Palestinian presidency swiftly condemned the move, labeling it a "dangerous escalation" in the ongoing conflict. The anti-settlement organization Peace Now also criticized the developments, stating that these new settlements would significantly alter the landscape of the West Bank and intensify the ongoing occupation.
Since the West Bank and East Jerusalem came under Israeli control following the 1967 Middle East conflict, Israel has constructed approximately 160 settlements that are home to around 700,000 Jewish residents. The construction and expansion of these settlements remain one of the most fractious issues between Israel and the Palestinians, who view the land as critical for a future sovereign state.
