The Israeli Security Cabinet has approved the establishment and legalization of 19 settlements in the occupied West Bank. This decision comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with reports of settler violence and clashes between Palestinians and Israeli forces.
According to reports, the move was initiated by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who presented a plan to the Cabinet outlining the regularization of these settlements. Some of the settlements are reportedly newly established, while others are existing outposts that will now be officially recognized. Among the established settlements slated for legalization are reportedly Ganim and Kadim, which were evacuated in 2005 during Israel’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.
The decision has drawn condemnation from Palestinian officials. The Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission stated that the approval of these settlements is a dangerous escalation that reveals the Israeli government’s intention to fully Judaize Palestinian land. They see this as part of a systematic policy led by the Netanyahu government to legitimize outposts and turn them into official settlements, thus consolidating control over Palestinian territories.
The move also raises concerns about the future of the two-state solution, which envisions an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Critics argue that the expansion of settlements undermines the possibility of a viable Palestinian state and further complicates the peace process.
The United Nations has also voiced its concern over settlement activity in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, with the Secretary-General noting that this year has seen the highest levels of settlement advancement since the UN began monitoring the issue.
Meanwhile, tensions on the ground remain high. Reports indicate that settlers have attacked the Bedouin community of Hethura, near Khan al-Ahmar, east of occupied Jerusalem. Additionally, two Palestinians were reportedly injured by Israeli soldiers during a raid on the Al-Amari refugee camp south of Ramallah. A Palestinian woman was also allegedly assaulted by Israeli soldiers in the city of Dura, near Hebron.
DZWatch will continue to monitor this developing situation.
