Israel Greenlights 34 Settlements in West Bank, Escalating Tensions

Israel has authorized 34 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, a move condemned as illegal under international law. This decision has ignited fear and anger among Palestinians, who see it as a direct threat to their claims to the land and their future statehood. The expansion underscores a bold shift in Israel's strategy, driven by its far-right leadership. At an inauguration event, Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich signaled even broader ambitions, hinting at territorial expansion extending