Israel Announces New West Bank Settlements Despite Threats of Sanctions

 

Israel Announces New West Bank Settlements Despite Threats of Sanctions

Israel’s government has approved the construction of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, according to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. This move risks deepening tensions with some of Israel's international allies, who have issued warnings of potential sanctions if settlement expansion continues. Smotrich, a prominent far-right figure and vocal supporter of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank, indicated that these settlements would be located in the northern part of the territory, though he did not specify exact locations. Israeli media reports suggested that existing outposts in the West Bank would be legalized, and new settlements would be established. Currently, approximately 700,000 Israeli settlers reside among around 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories captured by Israel during the 1967 war. While Israel has annexed East Jerusalem, most of the international community considers the settlements in the West Bank illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this, deeming them legal under its own laws. Some outposts are illegal but tolerated or later legalized by Israeli authorities.

Palestinians and many countries see the settlement expansion as a significant obstacle to the goal of establishing an independent Palestinian state rooted in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The move has provoked criticism from European nations demanding an end to settlement expansion, with Britain, France, and Canada warning of targeted sanctions if Israel proceeds further. Palestinian officials, including Mahmoud Abbas's spokesperson Nabil Abu Rudeineh, condemned the decision as a "dangerous escalation" and accused Israel of fueling violence and obstructing peace efforts. Hamas representatives called on the U.S. and European Union to intervene and stop the settlement development, viewing it as part of ongoing Israeli actions against Palestinians.

See also: US to Impose Visa Bans on Foreign Officials Over 'Flagrant Censorship'