Israel greenlights substantial West Bank settler complex development
Last week, Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to build around 3,400 homes on the E1 area, east of Jerusalem, a move that has been met with international opposition. This proposed settlement has been stalled for years due to its potential to cut the West Bank in two, undermining hopes for a contiguous Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital.
The mayor of Maale Adumim, an existing Israeli settlement in the West Bank, announced the civil administration's approval for the construction of the E1 neighborhood. However, King Abdullah II of Jordan rejected the E1 project, stating that it threatens the two-state solution and could lead to increased tensions in the region.
Aviv Tatarsky, a researcher at Ir Amim, condemned the move, arguing that it demonstrates Israel's determination to pursue a strategic program to bury the possibility of a Palestinian state and effectively annex the West Bank. The Palestinian Authority also criticized the move, stating it undermines the chances of implementing a two-state solution and fragments the geographic and demographic unity of the Palestinian state.
The Swiss government has taken measures against the planned construction in the controversial E1 area of the West Bank, rejecting the construction of thousands of housing units. They argue that these projects violate international law, endanger the two-state solution, and increase tensions. Specifically, Switzerland condemned the Israeli government's plan led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to build around 3,400 housing units between East Jerusalem and the settlement Maale Adumim in E1.
The proposed settlement could potentially cut the West Bank in two, making movement difficult for Palestinians who heavily rely on permits to cross through Israeli checkpoints. Over the same period, at least 36 Israelis, including security forces, have been killed in Palestinian attacks or during Israeli military operations, according to official figures. Israeli troops and settlers have also killed at least 971 Palestinians in the West Bank since then, according to health ministry figures.
Far-right Israeli ministers have openly called for Israel's annexation of the territory, a move that would further complicate the already complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict. UN chief Antonio Guterres warned that constructing Israeli homes in the E1 area could put an end to hopes for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As tensions escalate in the West Bank, it is crucial for all parties involved to seek a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. The international community must take urgent and effective measures to prevent the implementation of any plans that could lead to the fragmentation of Palestinian territory and the entrenchment of division in the West Bank.
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