Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans on August 14 to build a new Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank, raising concerns among Palestinians and human rights groups that the move could divide the West Bank and effectively block the creation of a future Palestinian state.
Smotrich stated, “This finally buries the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing and no one to recognize.” He added that any country attempting to recognize a Palestinian state will face consequences on the ground.
Background on the E1 Settlement Plan
- The development in the E1 area, east of Jerusalem, has been under consideration for over two decades but was previously frozen due to U.S. pressure.
- Smotrich praised former U.S. President Donald Trump and former U.S. ambassador Mike Huckabee as “true friends of Israel like never before.”
- The plan has not yet received final approval, expected next week, and includes around 3,500 housing units for the expansion of Ma’ale Adumim.
- Infrastructure work could begin within months, with construction expected to take about one year.
Reactions and Implications
- Human rights groups condemned the plan. “Peace Now” called it “deadly for Israel’s future and for any chance of achieving a two-state solution”, warning it could lead to years of further bloodshed.
- The announcement follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments on August 12, emphasizing his commitment to the vision of Greater Israel, which advocates Israeli control not only over the West Bank but also parts of neighboring Arab countries.
The settlement plan comes at a sensitive time, as several countries have indicated intentions to recognize a Palestinian state in September, further heightening tensions in the region.
