Expansion of Settlements Amid Ongoing Conflict
As the Israeli military continues its operations in Gaza, significant developments are occurring in the West Bank, where Israeli authorities are advancing settlement expansions and land confiscations. Recent data reveals that Israeli planning authorities have discussed 182 master plans aimed at constructing over 23,000 settlement units in the West Bank and Jerusalem. This expansion is accompanied by the establishment of new military barriers and checkpoints, further restricting Palestinian movement.
The Palestinian government's Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission indicates that 52,000 dunams of land have been seized since the onset of the conflict in October 2023. Notably, 12 buffer zones have been created around existing settlements, and new outposts have emerged, particularly in the Hebron, Ramallah, and Bethlehem governorates. These developments reflect a broader strategy of establishing a settler state in the West Bank, with Palestinian territories becoming increasingly fragmented.
Escalation of Violence and Displacement
In tandem with settlement expansion, there has been a marked increase in violence against Palestinian communities. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has documented over 1,500 attacks by settlers since October 2023, resulting in numerous casualties and extensive property damage. Reports indicate that at least 11 Palestinians have been killed due to settler violence, and approximately 4,500 individuals have been displaced as a result of demolitions and access restrictions.
The Israeli organization Peace Now highlights that 43 new outposts have been established since the conflict escalated, a stark increase from the previous average of seven per year. The Israeli government has allocated substantial funding for these outposts, further entrenching the settler presence in the region.
A Shift Towards a Settler State
Experts argue that the current Israeli government's policies are facilitating the establishment of a settler state in the West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has significant influence over settlement activities, has expedited approvals for new projects and increased funding for infrastructure supporting settlements. This has led to a dramatic rise in demolitions of Palestinian homes, with an estimated 1,400 structures demolished since the beginning of 2024.
The ongoing arming of settlers is also raising concerns, as it creates a parallel military force that operates alongside the Israeli army. With around 960,000 settlers residing in 204 settlements and 270 outposts, experts warn that without international intervention, the settlers could seize up to 40% of the West Bank, effectively dismantling the prospect of a viable two-state solution.
