In May 2025, Israel officially announced plans to construct 22 new settlements in the West Bank. The decision, confirmed by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Israel Katz, involves establishing new settlements and legalizing existing outposts.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense described the government's decision as a move to strengthen strategic control over the West Bank. These settlements aim to reinforce what they consider strategic areas. Some of the settlements will be completely new, while others will legalize existing outposts.
The Palestinian Authority and Hamas have condemned the Israeli decision. Palestinian official Nabil Abu Rudeineh stated it is a dangerous step that pushes the region towards escalation and instability. The Jordanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned Israel's settlement plans, deeming them a violation of international law and the rights of the Palestinian people.