Israel announced the approval of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, marking the largest expansion in decades. Several existing unauthorized outposts will be retrospectively legalized. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the move prevents the creation of a Palestinian state that could threaten Israel. The Palestinian presidency condemned the action as a dangerous escalation. The settlements are considered illegal under international law, a point of major contention between Israel and Palestine.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.