In a move that has drawn widespread international criticism, Israel’s Security Cabinet has formally approved the establishment of 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. The decision, finalized on December 12th and announced Sunday, represents a significant expansion of Israeli presence in territories claimed by Palestinians for their future state.
The resolution, championed by Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, includes 11 entirely new settlements alongside the legalization of eight previously unauthorized outposts. This development brings the total number of settlements approved over the past three years to 69, according to official statements from Smotrich’s office.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned what he characterized as Israel’s “relentless” settlement expansion, warning that such actions “continue to fuel tensions, impede access by Palestinians to their land and threaten the viability of a fully independent, democratic, contiguous and sovereign Palestinian State.”
The timing of this announcement is particularly significant as it contradicts key conditions of a US-brokered truce and comes amid growing international support for Palestinian statehood. Several European nations, Canada, and Australia have recently moved toward formal recognition of a Palestinian state, drawing strong objections from Israeli officials.
UK Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer denounced the settlement approvals as “illegal under international law” in a social media statement, warning they “risk undermining the 20-Point Plan and prospects for the long-term peace and security that only a two-state solution can deliver.”
The expansion has also raised questions about US-Israel relations, particularly following President Donald Trump’s public statement rejecting West Bank annexation and warning that Israel could lose American support. Regional experts note that while Trump’s position may create tension, it unlikely will cause a serious rift unless actively enforced.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue with US special envoy Steve Witkoff reporting progress on discussions regarding Gaza’s governance structure and regional integration measures essential to recovery and stability.