Israeli ministers announce plans for new illegal settlements in Gaza and West Bank

Israeli ministers have recently unveiled plans for new settlements in both the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, a move drawing strong international condemnation. Defence Minister Israel Katz announced intentions to establish three "Nahal" outposts in northern Gaza, military communities historically preceding civilian settlements. Concurrently, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich committed 1.3 billion shekels (approximately $400 million) to fund dozens of new and expanded settlements in the occupied West Bank, with cabinet approval reportedly secured last month but kept confidential due to anticipated U.S. opposition.

These developments surface as Israel prepares for national elections on October 27, with the current coalition government reportedly aiming to solidify control over occupied territories. Reports indicate that Israel now controls 65% of Gaza, surpassing the 53% agreed upon in a previous ceasefire deal. The Palestinian Colonization and Wall Resistance Commission stated that these West Bank plans involve constructing 1,024 settlement units on over 1,069 dunams (approximately 1,264 acres) of Palestinian land.

The establishment of these settlements is widely regarded as illegal under international law, contravening Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Both the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2024 and numerous United Nations Security Council resolutions have reaffirmed the illegality of Israeli settlements in occupied territories. The European Union, among others, has voiced deep concern, warning that such actions undermine the viability of a two-state solution and risk escalating regional tensions.