Israel’s Settlement Expansion in Occupied West Bank: A Controversial Path to Security?

The Israeli-occupied West Bank has become increasingly volatile since the Hamas massacre on October 7. Despite ongoing conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Israel’s northern border, the situation has worsened significantly. In response, the Israeli army has been engaging in frequent battles with militant Palestinians in places like Tulkarem and Jenin, with attacks against Israelis and Jewish extremists targeting Palestinian villages.

Amidst this volatile situation, Israel is moving forward with settlement expansion in the area. In June, Israeli authorities declared a 12.7-square-kilometer area in the Jordan Valley as “state land,” marking the largest land appropriation since the Oslo Accords in 1993. This land, previously considered a military restricted area, can now be used for settlement construction.

Israel Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key advocate for settlement expansion, sees these developments as crucial in preventing the establishment of a Palestinian state. Smotrich also serves as minister of civil affairs in the West Bank and has significantly increased approval of settlements since joining the government. His efforts to advance settlement construction have garnered both support and opposition, with some viewing it as essential for Israel’s security while others criticize it as a violation of international law.

Despite internal and external criticism, including from large parts of the opposition, the Israeli government continues to support settlement expansion in the West Bank. Defense Minister Joav Gallant has made it easier for settlers to access certain areas, demonstrating broader government support for settlement growth. While settler groups face international backlash and legal challenges, figures like Smotrich remain committed to establishing a permanent Israeli presence in the region.

The controversy surrounding efforts to prevent a Palestinian state centers around right-wing extremist minister Bezalel Smotrich’s determination to stop its establishment by any means necessary. Despite ongoing conflicts on Israel’s borders and worsening tensions in the occupied West Bank following Hamas massacre on October 7th ,Smotrich remains resolute that he will not allow Palestine to become an independent nation.

In response to this opposition from Smotrich and other pro-settlement officials , Israel is continuing its expansion plans into previously disputed lands . The latest move was declaring a 12 square kilometer area near Jordan Valley as state land which could now be used for building new settlement homes . This decision sparked protests from Palestinian activists who see it as an attempt by Israel to maintain control over their territory.

Smotrich’s influence on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been evident through recent cabinet decisions that have favored settlement expansion . While facing criticism from many quarters , Smotrich remains convinced that these actions are necessary for ensuring Israel’s security interests.

Despite criticism from both internal and external sources , including human rights organizations , international leaders ,and even members of his own party ,the Israeli government continues its push towards further expansion of settlements into occupied territories .