UN Report Highlights Illegal Israeli Settlement Expansion in West Bank

The UN report outlines substantial Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, labeling it illegal under international law. This expansion raises concerns of potential annexation among Palestinians, as US policies evolve. The UN High Commissioner calls for immediate cessation of settlement activities and warns that transferring Israeli civilians into occupied territory constitutes a war crime.

A recent report from the United Nations Human Rights Office reveals a significant increase in Israeli settlements within the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. This expansion, occurring between November 1, 2023, and October 31, 2024, contravenes international law, with various Israeli NGOs estimating tens of thousands of housing units being planned in these areas.

Presented to the UN Human Rights Council, the findings heighten concerns regarding potential annexation amid a changing US policy under President Donald Trump. The establishment of new settler outposts in areas regarded as future Palestinian state territories exacerbates these fears.

UN High Commissioner Volker Turk emphasized the ramifications of these actions, stating that Israel’s movement of its civilian population into occupied territories constitutes a war crime. He urged the international community to take decisive action, insisting that Israel must halt settlement activities and the forced transfer of Palestinians.

Currently, around 700,000 Israeli settlers reside among 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, areas that Israel annexed during the 1967 conflict. The report reiterates the stance of the majority of international communities, which regard these settlements as illegal under international law.

In its defense, the Israeli military claims that its operations in the West Bank are aimed at counter-terrorism and that they target suspected militants. However, the report argues that the further provision of Israeli governmental services to these settlements perpetuates systemic discrimination and violence against the Palestinian populace.

The UN report underscores the critical situation regarding Israeli settlements in the West Bank, asserting that their expansion not only violates international law but also significantly affects the Palestinian population. The call for international intervention highlights the urgency of addressing actions that could lead to further injustice and instability in the region. The ongoing tensions necessitate careful examination and response from the global community.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com