Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signed an agreement to proceed with a settlement expansion plan in the West Bank that would affect land the Palestinians want for a state.
Netanyahu stated, “There will never be a Palestinian state,” during a visit to the Maale Adumim settlement, where thousands of new housing units are planned. The E1 project, intended to connect settlements and disrupt the West Bank, received final approval from a Defence Ministry planning commission last month.
Joined by far-right coalition members, Netanyahu’s actions, following an attack on Hamas leaders, may worsen Israel’s relations with its allies, especially as some are considering recognizing a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly. The project was previously halted due to U. S. and European objections.
It involves nearly $1 billion in total investment for infrastructure improvements. The international community largely views Israeli settlements in the West Bank as illegal, raising concerns about prospects for peace.
With information from Reuters
