Israel Approves Measures to Expand Settlements, Loosen Land Purchasing for Settlers in West Bank
Israel's security cabinet has approved a series of decisions to change policy in the occupied Palestinian territory of the West Bank, facilitating land purchases by settlers and deepening Israeli control. The measures also aim to expand Israeli authority over contentious areas, drawing sharp criticism from Palestinian authorities.
Background and Context
The newly approved measures include expanded Israeli authority over the contended Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, known to Jews as the Tomb of the Patriarchs, and eliminating regulations dating back to the time when Jordan administered the West Bank, which previously prohibited Jews from buying land. The decisions were announced on Sunday (8 February 2026) by finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and defence minister Israel Katz.
Key Developments and Details
The cabinet's decisions have been described as an open Israeli attempt to legalize settlement expansion
by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. It is seen as a move to expand Israeli oversight of areas A and B, and to give Israel more powers to enforce its laws.
The Palestinian presidency in Ramallah has condemned these decisions, calling them a dangerous
Israeli attempt to legitimize settlement expansion and land confiscation. The new rules are designed to make it easier for Israeli settlers to buy land and increase Israeli control.
Implications and Reactions
As a reaction to the new measures, the Palestinian resistance movement, Hamas, has warned that the decisions will not create any rights for the occupiers. According to Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal, any attempts to disarm the group or impose 'foreign rule' are unacceptable.
In the midst of these developments, there have been reports of Israeli forces opening fire in Gaza City’s Zaytoun neighbourhood, leading to the death of a Palestinian man despite the October 2025 ceasefire agreement.
Conclusion and Current Status
The approval of these measures marks a significant shift in the Israeli government's policy towards the West Bank. The developments have led to heightened tensions, and the situation remains volatile.
The policy changes occur amidst ongoing violence and a complex humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where thousands of families are still unaware of the fate of their missing relatives. With the new measures in place, the future of the West Bank and its residents remains uncertain.