Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has made a bold demand for full administrative control over Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, further intensifying political and diplomatic tensions in the region.
The far-right leader, known for his hardline stance on territorial expansion, submitted a formal request to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seeking to transfer all settlement-related authority from the military to his civilian office.
Power Struggle in Netanyahu's Coalition
This move represents the latest power play within Israel's fragile coalition government, where Smotrich's Religious Zionism party holds significant sway. Analysts suggest the demand could destabilise Netanyahu's already precarious political position.
The proposal comes amid growing international criticism of Israel's settlement policies, which most countries consider illegal under international law. The United Nations and European Union have repeatedly condemned settlement expansion as an obstacle to peace.
International Backlash Expected
If implemented, Smotrich's plan would likely trigger strong reactions from:
- Palestinian authorities
- Arab states
- Western governments
- International organisations
The Biden administration has previously warned against unilateral actions that could undermine the possibility of a two-state solution.
Settlements: A Contentious Issue
Approximately 500,000 Israeli settlers currently live in the West Bank, alongside nearly 3 million Palestinians. The territory has been under Israeli military occupation since 1967.
Smotrich's proposal would effectively accelerate the process of de facto annexation, a move that previous Israeli governments had avoided due to international pressure.
Political observers note that Netanyahu faces a difficult balancing act between maintaining his coalition and preventing further isolation on the world stage.
