Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has authorized 113 million shekels ($37 million) to seize control of more than 70 historical locations in the occupied West Bank.
Funding breakdown
The Settlements Ministry will get 157 million shekels ($52 million) in direct support and an additional 142 million shekels ($47 million) in commitment authorizations. On the same day, the Knesset’s Finance Committee approved almost 300 million shekels ($83 million) for the same ministry. Smotrich described the plan as a 'Zionist act of the highest order,' calling it a way to safeguard Jewish heritage.
Heritage claims and international law
Israel is labeling these landmarks as part of Jewish heritage, using the designation to extend control over Palestinian land. Solomon’s Pools near Bethlehem is reportedly among the locations targeted. Smotrich has previously advocated for control over that site. Some 104 settlements and 160 outposts have been authorized in the West Bank since 2022, according to his statement.
Violence and resistance
The push to expand settlements is happening alongside a rise in violence by settlers against Palestinians. Palestinian media has documented over 11,000 attacks in the West Bank this year. Smotrich did not specify the exact sites but claimed the effort was vital for a people ‘without a past.’ The funding is viewed as part of Israel’s larger plan to assert historical and territorial dominance.