🇬🇧 English Version – Israel Approves 19 New Settlements in Occupied West Bank

 Israel’s security cabinet has approved the establishment of 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, a move that marks a significant expansion of Israeli settlement activity in Palestinian territories. �

The National +1

The decision was announced by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key figure in Israel’s far-right government coalition. He said the move is intended to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and strengthen Israeli control over the territory. �

Xinhua News

According to official statements, the new approval brings the total number of settlements authorized under the current government to 69 over the past three years. The West Bank now includes around 210 settlements, up from about 141 in 2022, according to the Israeli advocacy group Peace Now. �

AP News

Key Points:

The cabinet’s decision includes both newly established settlements and the legalization or re-establishment of previously evacuated outposts, including sites that were dismantled in 2005. �

AP News

The move has been condemned by international actors, including the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, which called the expansion a violation of international law and a barrier to peace. �

The National

Most of the international community considers Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank illegal under international law and believes they seriously undermine prospects for a two-state solution. �

Xinhua News

This expansion comes amid heightened tensions and violence in the West Bank, where clashes between settlers, Israeli forces, and Palestinians have increased in recent months. �

AP News

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