Israel allows 19 new settlements in occupied West Bank

By Nathan Morley

Israel’s security cabinet has approved the recognition of 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, deepening the government’s push to expand its presence in the territory.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a pro-settlement member of the cabinet, said the move brings the number of settlements legalized or approved over the past three years to 69.

The latest approvals include both newly established outposts and retroactive authorizations of communities built without official permits.

Smotrich said the decision aims to reinforce Jewish settlement across the West Bank and prevent what he called “the de facto establishment” of a Palestinian state.

Settlement activity has accelerated under Israel’s current right-wing coalition, which includes parties opposed to Palestinian statehood and supportive of expanding Israeli control over the West Bank.

Palestinian officials condemned the move, warning that it undermines prospects for a two-state solution and heightens tensions on the ground.

Western governments have repeatedly urged Israel to halt settlement expansion.

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit called the approvals illegitimate and a violation of international law. He said the decision defies global consensus against settlement activity.

For his part, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also criticized Israel’s settlement policy, saying it restricts Palestinian access to land and threatens the viability of a future Palestinian state.

Under international law, Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are considered illegal.