Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has made a controversial proclamation regarding the construction of over 3,000 homes in a contentious settlement project known as E1 in the occupied West Bank, stating that such plans will "bury the idea of a Palestinian state." This development, which has been stalled for decades due to strong international opposition, threatens to sever the connection between the West Bank and East Jerusalem, exacerbating tensions in the region.
Smotrich went on to assert that the construction would effectively eliminate the prospect of recognizing a Palestinian state, declaring, "there is nothing to recognize and no one to recognize." The settlement expansion remains a deeply polarizing issue, as international law views these settlements as illegal and a significant obstacle to peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians.
Estimates indicate that approximately 700,000 settlers live in around 160 settlements throughout the West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories that Palestinians envision for a future independent state. Smotrich, during a news conference alongside representatives from settler organizations, framed the development as a demonstration of "Zionism at its best," clearly dismissing international apprehensions about the escalating settlements.
This announcement comes amid growing efforts from countries such as the UK and France to recognize Palestinian statehood, actions that Israeli officials have denounced. When asked about the implications of E1 development on international recognition efforts, Smotrich replied, "It's not going to happen. There will be no state to recognize."
In reaction to the proposed expansion, the U.S. State Department remarked that a stable West Bank is vital for Israel's security and aligns with peace objectives in the region. However, international bodies including the UN and EU have urged Israel to refrain from advancing the settlement plans, with an EU spokesperson reaffirming the rejection of any territorial changes not sanctioned by a political agreement among the involved parties.
UK Foreign Minister David Lammy characterized the E1 project as a "flagrant breach of international law," emphasizing the urgent need to halt these plans, which would dangerously split a future Palestinian state. Additionally, Germany reiterated its opposition to settlement construction, while Turkey condemned the plans for undermining the integrity of Palestinian territories.
Israeli NGO Peace Now expressed concern that the Netanyahu government is seizing opportunities to further annex Palestinian land, which they argue obstructs peace efforts and perpetuates violence. The Palestinian foreign ministry condemned the settlement initiative, labeling it an extension of atrocities including genocide and displacement against the Palestinian people.
The latest plans have been under consideration for two decades, with the E1 area strategically positioned to prevent a contiguous Palestinian urban area by separating regions north and south of Jerusalem. Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Israeli actions in the West Bank against Palestinians have intensified, framed as necessary security measures by Israeli officials.
The majority of the international community continues to uphold the view that settlements violate international law, a sentiment reinforced by the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion from the previous year. As tensions mount in the region, the future of the long-sought two-state solution remains uncertain amid escalating hostilities.
