Israel's defence and finance ministers have announced plans for three settlements in Gaza and more than $400m in funding to expand construction in the occupied West Bank, according to the Guardian. The outlet describes the settlements as illegal under international law.
Israel’s defence and finance ministers have announced plans for three settlements in Gaza and more than $400m (£300m) in funding to expand construction in the occupied West Bank, according to the Guardian. The outlet describes the settlements as illegal under international law.
The defence minister is seeking three “Nahal” outposts in Gaza, while finance ministry funding is directed toward expanded construction across the occupied West Bank, the Guardian reports. The moves, according to the outlet, are part of a push by Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition to extend control over land in occupied Palestine.
The Guardian reported that Israel’s military commander for the region described outposts as his “security partners”. The same commander said Israel now controls 65% of the Gaza Strip, a level of control the Guardian says violates the Trump ceasefire deal.
According to the Guardian, the announcements come as Netanyahu’s coalition seeks to expand control of land ahead of national elections scheduled for 27 October. The outlet characterises the effort as aimed at driving out Palestinians before the coalition’s mandate expires.
The combination of new outposts in Gaza and funding for West Bank construction points to an intensified effort ahead of the vote, the Guardian reports.
The sources reviewed did not include a response from the Israeli government beyond the ministers’ announcements, nor comment from Palestinian officials or the parties to the ceasefire. The full scope and timeline of the plans were set out in the Guardian’s reporting.
Why it matters
Settlement expansion in Gaza and the West Bank affects the daily lives of Palestinians and the prospects for any future peace agreement. Reports that Israel controls a majority of Gaza in what the Guardian describes as a violation of a ceasefire deal raise questions about the durability of that agreement and possible international responses ahead of Israel's October elections.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding was announced for the West Bank?
According to the Guardian, more than $400m (£300m) in funding was announced to expand construction in the occupied West Bank.
How much of Gaza does Israel reportedly control?
Israel's top commander for the region said Israel now controls 65% of the Gaza Strip, which the Guardian reports violates the Trump ceasefire deal.
When are Israel's elections scheduled?
National elections are scheduled for 27 October, according to the Guardian.