Israel has moved forward with a major settlement expansion, approving plans for 1,300 new housing units south of occupied East Jerusalem. The construction, ratified by a government planning committee within the Gush Etzion bloc, signifies a substantial consolidation of Israeli presence in the contested West Bank, a territory central to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
Planning and International Context
The approval was granted unanimously earlier this week, as reported by Israeli media outlets. This development occurs despite recent statements from U.S. President Donald Trump voicing criticism against the continued construction of Israeli settlements, which are considered illegal under international law by most of the global community, including Türkiye.
Scope of the Settlement Project
The new units are slated for the Har HaRusim area, promising not only residences but also accompanying schools, public buildings, and a significant commercial zone intended to service several nearby settlements. This infrastructure aims to create a more permanent footprint in the region, altering its demographic and physical landscape.
Local Reactions and Regional Implications
The Gush Etzion Regional Council welcomed the decision, framing it as a response to local Israeli demand. However, such expansions are a persistent point of contention, undermining the viability of a future Palestinian state and consistently drawing condemnation from Türkiye, which advocates for the Palestinian cause and a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders.