Israel's Expansive West Bank Settlement Spurs Global Outcry
In a move that has sparked international condemnation, Israel is forging ahead with the construction of a vast, contentious settlement in the heart of the West Bank. The project, dubbed 'E1', involves the construction of 3,401 homes and has been described as a move designed to 'bury the idea of a Palestinian state' (The Guardian).
Background and Context
The Israeli Land Authority quietly posted a tender for construction in mid-December, which many see as a move that will effectively sever the northern and southern parts of the occupied West Bank for Palestinians, and further isolate East Jerusalem (The Guardian). Yoni Mizrahi, who runs the group's settlement watch division, has suggested that construction could begin within the month (The Hindu).
Recent Developments and UN Accusations
Simultaneously, IDF soldiers have reportedly raided the West Bank's Birzeit University, aiming to disrupt what they termed a 'pro-terror' gathering (The Times of Israel), and the UN has accused Israel of implementing an 'apartheid system' in the West Bank, citing discrimination against Palestinians (South China Morning Post). The UN rights office report underscores that Israeli settlers and Palestinians are treated 'under two distinct bodies of law and policies,' resulting in unequal practices (The Times of Israel).
IRNA English reports that the Israeli regime is attempting to redraw the map of its settlements in various parts of the West Bank, further fragmenting the region and increasing disconnection among Palestinians. Furthermore, Fifa has been urged to intervene in the planned Israeli demolition of a football pitch in the occupied West Bank used by children and players who have represented Palestine in women's football at the international level (Middle East Eye).
Humanitarian Concerns and Reactions
Adding to the escalating situation, several hospitals and health facilities in the Gaza Strip are reportedly at risk of reducing services or ceasing operations due to Israel's blockade on fuel entering the strip (Middle East Eye). This has raised serious humanitarian concerns, as hospitals are unable to offer continuous operations and services such as surgery and intensive care due to limited quantities of diesel.
The UN has denounced the 'Israeli apartheid' and the 'asphyxiation' of the rights of Palestinians (Le Monde) with the rights chief, Volker Türk, stating that the Israeli policy in West Bank 'resembles apartheid system' (BBC News). Israel has responded to this by stating that Türk's office makes absurd
accusations.
Conclusion
In the face of these accusations, Israel has cleared the last hurdle to begin the controversial settlement project near Jerusalem. Critics argue that this move will effectively divide the West Bank and block a contiguous Palestinian state (The Times of Israel). The situation remains fraught with tension as the international community watches closely for further developments.