Controversy Intensifies Over New Israeli Settlements Push
The plan adds 1,006 homes near Jerusalem, 922 near Nablus and 234 near Hebron, deepening tensions over a future Palestinian state.
- On Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced approval of 2,162 new Jewish settlement homes in the West Bank, including 1,006 units near Jerusalem, 922 near Nablus, and 234 near Hebron.
- Smotrich, who holds authority over civilian administration in the West Bank, intends to tighten Israeli control, stating the expansion would "strengthen our hold on the land" and prevent the creation of a Palestinian state.
- While most nations consider settlements illegal under international law, President Donald Trump's administration has been less critical, though Trump previously stated he would oppose Israeli annexation of the West Bank.
- Condemning the announcement, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's office warned that such "provocative" policies push the region toward violence and called on the U.S. to stop the Israeli "madness."
- Despite sanctions from Britain and France over accusations of inciting violence, Smotrich remains unyielding, asserting that these measures will not change Israeli policy regarding settlement expansion.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Israel approves major settlement expansion in occupied West Bank, defies international law
Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced a major expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank, as he pushes to annex more of the Palestinian territory.
Plan previews the construction of more than 2,000 dwellings in an area that the Palestinians expect to integrate into a future independent state
Israel Approves 2,000 New West Bank Settlement Homes in Major Expansion Push
Israel has approved the construction of more than 2,000 new housing units in the occupied West Bank, in a move that is expected to further escalate tensions with Palestinians and draw international criticism over settlement expansion. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who confirmed that a planning committee had […] The post Israel Approves 2,000 New West Bank Settlement Homes in Major Expansion …
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