Israeli Minister Moves to Expand Settlements, Provokes Outcry Over Palestinian Statehood

As Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announces plans for 3,000 new homes in the West Bank, critics warn this will severely hinder the establishment of a Palestinian state. The controversial E1 project, long stagnant, faces renewed attention amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and rising tensions following recent conflicts.

Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has ignited widespread condemnation by announcing plans for the construction of more than 3,000 homes as part of a contentious settlement project in the occupied West Bank. This initiative, he asserts, is designed to thwart the viability of a future Palestinian state. The E1 project, situated between Jerusalem and the Maale Adumim settlement, has been on hold for decades due to intense international backlash. Building in this area would effectively sever the West Bank from occupied East Jerusalem, critically undermining the territorial continuity necessary for a possible Palestinian state. “The plan will bury the idea of a Palestinian state,” Smotrich reportedly stated.

Settlements are deemed illegal by international law, a claim Israel refutes. Tensions surrounding settlements remain one of the most explosive disputes in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Data from the Israeli anti-settlement organization Peace Now indicates that around 700,000 settlers reside in nearly 160 settlements across the West Bank and East Jerusalem, regions Palestinians view as essential for a future independent state.

In light of recent declarations from several countries signaling intent to recognize Palestinian statehood, Israel has been vocal in its opposition. As part of Smotrich's presentation, he is set to be joined by Yesha Council Chairman Israel Ganz and Ma'ale Adumim Mayor Guy Yifrach. Critics from Peace Now have denounced the Netanyahu government’s actions as an attempt to irreversible cement control over the West Bank, thereby obstructing any prospect of a two-state solution. They argue, “It is clear to everyone today that the only solution to the conflict, and the only way to defeat Hamas, is through the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. The Government of Israel is condemning us to continued bloodshed, instead of working to end it.”

Smotrich, along with national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, faced sanctions from the UK in June due to ongoing incitements of violence against Palestinians in the occupied territories. The E1 project's plans have been effectively dormant for the past 20 years, with international observers warning that its development could critically undermine peace efforts. Following Hamas's assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, the pressure on Palestinians in the West Bank has intensified, framed by the Israeli government as necessary security measures. Meanwhile, the international community largely maintains that the settlements are illegal under international law, a stance reinforced by a recent advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).