The Israeli authorities are advancing their plan to construct more than 3,400 housing units for Jewish settlers in the West Bank, an area under occupation. This represents a significant step in Israel's expansion of settlements within Palestinian territories.
Controversy Surrounding the New Settlements
Approximately 70% of these new dwellings, or around 2,450 units, are earmarked for the expansive Maale Adumim settlement, situated to the east of Jerusalem. The remaining homes are planned for Kedar and Efrat, both located south of Bethlehem.
Israeli representatives have justified the construction as a response to a recent violent incident by Palestinian gunmen near Maale Adumim, which resulted in one Israeli fatality and several injuries.
Criticism from Palestinians and Advocates for Peace
The Palestinian Authority, overseeing certain West Bank regions, has vehemently opposed the Israeli expansion plans, labeling the settlements as "void and illegal" and accusing Israel of escalating violence and conflict. They argue that the continuous settlement expansion hinders the possibility of a two-state solution, with a sovereign Palestinian state existing alongside Israel.
Groups within Israel opposing the settlements, such as Peace Now, have also criticized the decision, arguing it undermines prospects for genuine peace and security.
International Views on the Settlements
Globally, Israel's settlements in the West Bank are widely regarded as a violation of international law, following Israel's occupation and annexation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem after the 1967 Middle East conflict.
Since then, Israel has established around 160 settlements in these territories, home to approximately 700,000 Jewish settlers, despite Palestinian aspirations for these lands as part of a prospective state. While the international community views these settlements as illegal, Israel contests this interpretation.
Shift in US Policy
Israel's recent move to expand its settlements has attracted criticism from the United States, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressing disappointment. He reaffirmed the US stance that settlements contravene international law and obstruct the path to a sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians. This statement marks a departure from the previous stance under President Donald Trump's administration, which had declared the settlements not illegal.
Rising Violence and Strained Relations
The authorization of new settlements by Israel occurs amidst escalating violence and tension in the West Bank. Since October 2022, United Nations reports indicate that at least 413 Palestinians, including militants, attackers, and civilians, as well as 15 Israelis, comprising 4 security personnel, have lost their lives due to the ongoing conflict.