Jerusalem: For the first time since 1967, the Israeli government has approved a law to initiate the registration and formal settlement of lands in the West Bank, as reported on Sunday. The decision marks a significant shift in Israeli policy regarding the territory.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, the Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation revealed that this new law allows extensive areas of the West Bank to be designated as 'state lands.' This development potentially facilitates increased control and expansion of Israeli settlements within the region.
The decision has been met with approval from certain Israeli officials. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed support, stating that the law prevents unilateral actions and underscores responsibility over the land. He further noted that the decision continues the 'settlement revolution' aimed at asserting control over the territories.
In a related statement, Israeli Army Minister Israel Katz highlighted the significance of this move. He pointed out that for the first time since the 1967 war, the Israeli government is undertaking the registration of West Bank lands, thereby allowing large areas to be recorded as 'property of the State of Israel.'