In a significant development, the US Embassy in Israel has announced on social media the initiation of consular services in the West Bank settlement of Efrat for the first time. This decision has been met with intense backlash from various Palestinian factions, who view it as a qualitative shift towards the Judaization and comprehensive annexation of the West Bank by Israel. The announcement has stirred fears of legitimizing settlements that are considered illegal under international law, thus further complicating the peace process in the region.

Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) has condemned the move, labeling it a dangerous precedent that aligns with the Israeli occupation’s plans in the West Bank. The Palestinian leadership, including members of the Palestine Liberation Organization, echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the United States is acting as if these settlements are part of Israel, attempting to legitimize the ongoing occupation. This dichotomy between the US's public stance against annexation and its actions on the ground raises serious questions about the authenticity of its diplomatic position and the potential consequences for future negotiations.

Experts and Palestinian authorities are observing this development closely, as it symbolizes a broader shift in US policy regarding Israeli settlements. The move has the potential to set a precedent for additional recognitions of settlements, possibly leading to further Israeli territorial claims. This indicates that the US may be moving towards a more supportive stance of Israeli policies in the occupied territories, thereby exacerbating tensions and undermining efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.