Netanyahu vows to expand West Bank settlements despite global pressure

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue establishing and expanding settlements in the West Bank, despite growing international pressure. He also pointed to an expected wave of immigration to the occupied Palestinian territories.

Netanyahu, who leads one of the most right-wing governments in Israel's history, made the remarks at a settler event on Tuesday evening. He stated, "We cannot ignore the numbers: together we have established and legalized 104 settlements and 160 farms, and more is on the way." He told attendees, "You are realizing the vision of the Land of Israel—this is our land," and praised the "tremendous effort the government is making to fulfill the vision of generations."

Netanyahu's government faces mounting international criticism for accelerating settlement construction, as violence by settlers against Palestinians has also increased. Last week, European leaders voiced their opposition to a major settlement project after Israeli authorities opened tenders for more than 1,200 new housing units.

Controversial settlement projects

Last year, Israel approved the "E1" project, which threatens to sever the geographic continuity of the West Bank, further undermining prospects for a viable, independent Palestinian state, according to observers.

Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967. Around three million Palestinians live there, alongside more than 500,000 Israelis in settlements. The current Israeli government is accelerating settlement construction and expansion, with some ministers calling for the formal annexation of the West Bank.

Meanwhile, violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians has intensified, with rights groups reporting that attacks have become almost daily occurrences.