Response to Fatal Shooting Attack
In response to a fatal shooting attack by Palestinian gunmen near the Maale Adumim settlement, Israel’s finance minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to build thousands of new homes in Israeli-occupied West Bank settlements.
International Response
Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed disappointment, calling the new settlements “inconsistent with international law” and counterproductive to peace efforts in the region.
Growing Tensions
The decision to expand settlements comes amidst growing tensions over Israel’s war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, with the Biden administration advocating for eventual Palestinian governance in Gaza and the West Bank.
Reactions and Criticisms
Critics, including settlement watchdog group Peace Now, argue that the construction in settlements deepens conflict and hinders prospects for peace and security in the region.
Background and Context
Israel has faced increased violence since Hamas’ terror attack on Oct. 7, with Palestinian gunmen carrying out deadly attacks in the West Bank. The expansion of settlements in territories sought by Palestinians for a future state has further fueled tensions in the region.