Israeli Authorities Advance Settlement Plans in West Bank Amid Increased Military Presence
In 2025, the Israeli Civil Administration approved plans for 28,136 housing units in Jewish settlements, including 1,033 units in Asfar, Yitzhar, and Sanur. The Israeli Security Cabinet established 14 new settlements and legalized 5 outposts, breaking a three-year pattern of settlement activity.
Over 140 'pastoral farms' have been established, seizing approximately 1,000,000 dunams of land. The ‘E1 Plan’ to link Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim has progressed, impacting the viability of a two-state solution.
The Israeli army is deploying 21 field battalions in the West Bank, with plans to transfer more troops from Gaza. Recent reports indicate that settlers are restricting Palestinian access to lands. The Israeli government plans to establish 70 new settlements and relocate families to unauthorized outposts while expanding military infrastructure. A new settlement project aims to connect Karnei Shomron to Immanuel, including 5,774 housing units and extensive infrastructure development.
