Israel's government accelerates the annexation of occupied West Bank territory ahead of the October elections, transitioning authority from military to civilian hands.
As Israel prepares for its legislative elections in October, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has approved measures that significantly deepen the 'de facto' annexation of the occupied Palestinian territory of the West Bank. This shift entails transferring control from military authorities to civilian settlers, aligning with the goals of far-right coalition partners who advocate for the expansion of Israeli settlements. The urgency of these actions appears to stem from polling that shows Netanyahu's coalition trailing behind the opposition, prompting a push to solidify nationalist ambitions before the elections.
The expansion of settlements in the West Bank has been unprecedented since 2022, which has been characterized as taking place without significant international pushback. Israel's ultranationalist leaders, including Minister Orit Strock, have expressed their belief in a 'colonial miracle' and have sought to create a narrative of urgency around annexation efforts. Their rhetoric suggests a fear of losing momentum in territorial control as electoral pressures mount, invoking imagery of a green traffic light that permits unfettered expansion.
This continued push for annexation raises significant implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations and the prospects for future peace. Observers warn that these changes would further entrench divisions in the region and undermine the prospects for a two-state solution. The growing number of settlements complicates the lives of Palestinians, potentially increasing tensions and violence in an already volatile area as the election draws near, underscoring the ongoing struggle over land and governance in the West Bank.
