Israel Approves Massive West Bank Settlement Expansion | JQJO

Israel approved the expansion of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, the largest since the Oslo Accords. This move, described as de facto annexation, includes establishing settlements in areas previously withdrawn from and legalizing existing outposts. The Israeli government stated the expansion aims to reinforce control and prevent a Palestinian state. Palestinian officials condemned the decision as a dangerous escalation and violation of international law. Peace Now criticized the move as prioritizing occupation over peace, while Israel's far-right finance minister celebrated it as a step towards annexation.