Kathmandu— Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the West Bank “our land” on Tuesday, stating his government will continue constructing settlements and preparing for a significant increase in Jewish immigration to Israel. The announcement comes despite widespread condemnation from Arab nations and Western partners regarding recent settlement expansions, which are considered breaches of international law. Speaking at an event organized by the Binyamin Regional Council – governing 47 West Bank settlements – Netanyahu asserted that his government has already established and regularized over 260 such communities, with plans for further development. The move is seen as a potential step towards full annexation of the territory, a long-held goal of some within his coalition.

Settlement Expansion and Legal Concerns

All settlements located outside Israel’s 1967 borders are considered illegal by the United Nations. The International Criminal Court has also determined that Israel's transfer of population to these areas constitutes a breach of the Geneva Convention. While the Israeli state sometimes formally authorizes settlement construction, many begin as unauthorized outposts on Palestinian land before being retroactively legalized. Netanyahu highlighted his government’s efforts, stating they have established and regularized “104 settlements and 160 farms,” promising continued expansion.

E1 Project Draws International Criticism

Last week, Israel initiated bidding for the construction of over 1,200 homes in the E1 settlement project east of Jerusalem. The larger plan aims to build more than 3,400 homes and will create a land corridor connecting East Jerusalem with the existing Ma’ale Adumim settlement, both built on Palestinian territory. Critics warn that this development will sever vital road links between the Palestinian cities of Ramallah and Bethlehem. Eight Arab and Muslim states, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Türkiye, issued a joint statement describing the E1 plan as “a dangerous escalation.” The UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, European Commission, and 15 European states also condemned the project, citing its detrimental impact on the possibility of a two-state solution.

Immigration Plans and Domestic Pressure

Netanyahu indicated his intention to facilitate a “major Aliyah,” or wave of Jewish immigration to Israel. He stated that “every Jewish man and every Jewish woman” is welcome, and his government is preparing for their arrival. However, recent years have seen an increase in emigration from Israel, with over 150,000 Israelis leaving the country between 2024 and 2025, according to a report by 972 magazine. Within Netanyahu’s governing coalition, hardline partners like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have publicly urged him to annex the West Bank before upcoming elections.

Long-Term Annexation Goals

Netanyahu has previously suggested that full annexation of the West Bank remains an option, even while pursuing peace accords with Arab states in 2020. His recent statements and continued settlement expansion reinforce these long-term goals. He described acquiring land as a process achieved “through suffering,” but affirmed his commitment to maintaining control over the territory.

The ongoing settlement expansions continue to fuel tensions in the region and raise concerns about the viability of a future two-state solution, with international actors urging Israel to reconsider its policies.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.