Israel’s security cabinet approved a package to strengthen Israeli control over the West Bank, including facilitating land purchases for settlers and expanding enforcement powers for Israeli officials in areas administered by the Palestinian Authority.

The measures are framed as addressing water infractions, protecting archaeological sites, and curbing environmental nuisances across the region.

Among the changes, land sales to Jews would be reinstated, West Bank land registry records would be declassified to ease acquisitions, planning authority for sensitive sites in Hebron would shift to Israeli control, and environmental and archaeological enforcement would extend into Palestinian-administered zones.

Israeli ministers did not immediately comment on the reports.

Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh condemned the moves as a violation of signed agreements and international law, arguing they undermine a two-state solution and heighten regional tensions.

Analysts view the announcements as part of ongoing tensions over settlement expansion and its impact on Palestinian statehood and regional dynamics.

The coverage references a 2025 UN report noting a peak in settlement growth since monitoring began in 2017.

Netanyahu’s coalition includes settlers’ supporters who favor annexation, with the U.S. posture under former President Trump historically not opposing but not endorsing annexation either, influencing the regional context.

The moves occur amid international debate, including a 2024 ICJ advisory opinion deeming occupation and settlements illegal, a ruling Israel disputes.

Hamas urged Palestinians in the West Bank to intensify confrontations with the occupation and settlers.

The Palestinian leadership characterized the measures as a step toward deeper annexation of the West Bank.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the actions as dangerous and urged international intervention, with Jordan also criticizing them as an attempt to impose sovereignty and entrench settlements.