Israeli Military Transfers West Bank Authority to Far-Right Minister

Smotrich's control shift raises concerns over settlement expansion, increased violence, and political instability.

Israeli military has handed significant West Bank administrative powers to Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right minister.
Smotrich plans to prevent the creation of a Palestinian state and empower settlers, complicating Israeli-Palestinian relations.
Human rights groups warn that Smotrich's actions could lead to de facto annexation and violate international law.
Reports indicate a rise in settler violence and Palestinian displacement since the power transfer began.
The U.S. response to these developments remains uncertain, with potential implications for Israel-U.S. relations.