Israel Approves Largest West Bank Settlement Expansion Decades

Israeli officials have approved the expansion of 22 new Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, including the legalization of unauthorized outposts, marking the largest growth in decades. Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich framed the move as critical to Israel's security and a response to Palestinian attacks, with Smotrich also expressing ambitions to settle Gaza and expand Israel's borders. This settlement expansion further complicates the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, undermining the prospect of a future Palestinian state, a concern echoed by Palestinian leaders who denounce the move as dangerous escalation. Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has vowed to continue settlement growth despite a potential ICC arrest warrant related to settlement activity, emphasizing his commitment to Israel’s territorial claims. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes and border closures, with mounting casualties and international appeals for urgent intervention. The situation reflects heightened tensions and deepening divisions over territory, security, and sovereignty in the region.