UN slams Israel’s expansion of illegal settlements in occupied West Bank
Summary
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized Israel’s plans to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank, calling them illegal under international law. The UN sees these settlements as a major barrier to peace between Israelis and Palestinians amid rising violence in the area.Key Facts
- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal and violate international law.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to legalize existing outposts and create new settlements.
- A 2024 International Court of Justice advisory opinion confirmed that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian land is unlawful.
- Violence in the West Bank has increased, with at least eight Palestinians and two Israelis killed in recent days.
- Since the start of 2026, Israeli forces or settlers have killed 77 Palestinians, including 18 children.
- The UN reported over 1,330 settler-related incidents causing harm or property damage this year.
- Israeli military actions have restricted Palestinian movement, limiting access to medical help and jobs.
- UN officials warned that violence is rising in both the West Bank and Gaza, causing more displacement and civilian deaths.
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