Israeli Finance Minister Unveils Controversial Plan to Expand West Bank Settlements Amid Rising Tensions

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to strengthen settlements in the West Bank and counter the establishment of a Palestinian state. He emphasized the urgency of these actions in light of recent international recognition of Palestine and escalating tensions in the region. Smotrich's proposed new settlement, Nahal Hillitz, aims to expand the Gush Etzion settlement and connect it to Jerusalem. This initiative has drawn criticism from Palestinian authorities and Israeli NGOs, who view it as a continuation of colonial policies and a threat to peace efforts.