Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has ignited global controversy by backing plans to build 3,400 homes in the E1 area of the occupied West Bank—a move critics say could derail peace efforts and fragment Palestinian territories. 🚧
Why It Matters
The E1 zone, east of Jerusalem, is a geopolitical flashpoint. Construction here would physically separate northern and southern parts of the West Bank, making a contiguous Palestinian state nearly impossible, according to the UN. 🌐
Global Backlash
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned the plan would 'end hopes for a two-state solution.' The EU, Germany, and Saudi Arabia condemned the move, while France and the UK reaffirmed plans to recognize Palestine later this year. 🚨
Smotrich’s Defense
At a pro-settlement event, Smotrich argued: 'Those recognizing Palestine will get our response—homes, roads, and families building lives.' Critics call it a retaliatory move against growing international support for Palestinian statehood. 💥
What’s Next?
Final approval for the E1 project could come as early as next week. If greenlit, construction may start within months. Peace Now, an Israeli NGO, warns this could be 'deadly for the future of Israel and peace.' ⏳
With 500,000 Israeli settlers already in the West Bank—home to 3 million Palestinians—this escalation risks deepening one of the world’s most intractable conflicts. ✌️
