The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned Israel’s recent approval of 34 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, deeming it a violation of international law. This decision, reported by the Israeli rights group Peace Now, was made in secret earlier in April and adds to the 68 settlements approved since Netanyahu’s right-wing government took office in 2022.
The Palestinian president’s office decried the settlements, stating they conflict with international law. The OIC emphasized that Israel, as an occupying power, lacks sovereignty over Palestinian territories and that attempts to alter demographic realities are invalid.
Turkiye also criticized the settlement approvals as violations of international law, echoing sentiments from the European Union, which called for Israel to reverse its decisions and adhere to its obligations to protect Palestinians. Sweden’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed similar condemnation.
Israeli media reported that the Security Cabinet approved these settlements in a significant meeting, marking the largest single approval of settlements. Approximately ten of the new settlements are illegal outposts that will receive formal recognition, while 24 are yet to be constructed. Overall, all Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law.
Settlement expansion, a long-standing Israeli policy, has intensified recently, particularly since the escalation of violence in Gaza, raising concerns among rights groups regarding increased land grabs and settler violence.
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