Why it matters:
The decision marks another escalation in settlement expansion, an issue at the heart of the decades-long conflict, and threatens to further erase Palestinian territorial presence across the West Bank.
The big picture:
Israel’s settlement policy has accelerated in recent years, despite international opposition and multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions deeming settlements illegal under international law.
Palestinian groups warn that continued land seizure and demographic engineering aim to entrench full Israeli control and displace the indigenous population.
What they're saying:
In its statement issued on December 10, Hamas described the decision by Israel’s so-called Supreme Planning Council as:
“A new Judaization step” within an expansionist settlement agenda.
“A dangerous escalation” and “blatant challenge” to international law.
Part of an Israeli project “based on forced displacement and uprooting of the indigenous population.”
Hamas warned of the consequences of ongoing land expropriation, persecution, and restrictions targeting Palestinian civilians, particularly farmers, and affirmed that Palestinians “will not bow to such arrogance.”
Key points:
- Israel approved 764 new settlement units in multiple West Bank settlements.
- Hamas says the plan aims to consolidate Israeli control and advance annexation.
- The movement calls the move colonial and illegal under international law.
- Palestinians fear further displacement and loss of agricultural land.
- Hamas urges the international community to intervene and impose deterrent measures.
Go deeper:
Israeli Settlers Set up Mobile Homes Near Ramallah, Signaling New Illegal Outpost
Hossein Vaez - A.Akbari
