Israel Expands West Bank Settlements, Redrawing Prospective Palestinian State

Netanyahu's government accelerates land seizures and settlement construction, complicating two-state solution prospects.

Nearly 6,000 acres seized and 12,000 housing units approved in the past 18 months.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich leads the expansion with significant administrative powers.
Palestinian communities face increased demolitions, violence, and restrictions on movement.
UN and international bodies deem settlements illegal, but Israeli government dismisses rulings.
New settlements disrupt connectivity between Palestinian areas, undermining potential statehood.