Israel Approves Record Settlement Expansion Despite U.S. Criticism

Israel approved plans to build 5,700 new homes in Jewish settlements in the West Bank, marking an annual record for settlement construction.
The move came despite criticism from the international community, which considers all settlement building a violation of international law.
The decision defied growing U.S. criticism of Israel's settlement policies and raised tensions with the Palestinians.
The international community considers settlement construction illegal or illegitimate and an obstacle to peace.
Israel's government, dominated by religious and ultranationalist politicians, has made settlement expansion its top priority.