In a major escalation, Israel has approved the establishment of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank — the largest expansion in decades. Announced by Defence Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, the move includes legalizing existing unauthorized outposts and constructing nine completely new settlements. This decision follows a sharp increase in settlement activity since Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power in 2022, leading a right-wing, pro-settler coalition.
The settlements, considered illegal under international law, have long been a flashpoint in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While Israeli leaders call the expansion a “strategic move” to block the creation of a Palestinian state, Palestinian officials have denounced it as a “dangerous escalation” that deepens occupation and fuels instability. Peace Now, an Israeli watchdog, warned the move entrenches the occupation and reshapes the region irreversibly.
The new settlements span the northern and central West Bank, including controversial sites like Homesh and Mount Ebal. Smotrich hailed it as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity, signaling a push toward full annexation.
International backlash has followed, with Jordan and the UK calling it a breach of international law and a direct threat to peace. Analysts believe Israel may be edging closer to formal annexation of the West Bank, undermining renewed efforts for a two-state solution. Despite international opposition, the Israeli government appears determined to solidify control over the territory, raising the stakes for regional peace and diplomacy.
