Israel Approves Largest West Bank Settlement Expansion

Israel has approved the largest West Bank settlement expansion in decades, authorizing 22 new settlements and legalizing previously unauthorized outposts. The decision, announced by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Israel Katz, is intended to bolster Israeli control and prevent a Palestinian state. The move has drawn condemnation from Palestinians, the United Nations, the UK, Jordan, and other international allies, who argue it violates international law and undermines hopes for a two-state solution. Human rights groups warn the expansion accelerates de facto annexation and further threatens Palestinian statehood. The announcement comes amid ongoing violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, straining Israel’s relations with its allies. Critics have called for international intervention to halt the settlement policy.