Inside Benjamin Netanyahu's Fast-Track Push for New West Bank Settlements Despite Global Outcry

Considered illegal under international law, Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank have experienced decades of steady expansion. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his right-wing government have actively fast-tracked the creation of new housing units to solidify Israel’s control over the occupied West Bank and prevent the establishment of a contiguous Palestinian state.

With elections only months away, the government has officially opened bidding for 1,200 illegal housing units while brushing aside widespread international criticism regarding the controversial E1 settlement plan. Although certain Western countries have issued threats of potential sanctions should Israel proceed, questions remain regarding whether such measures will have any actual impact.

Guests featured in this discussion:

• Ammar Hijazi – Ambassador and head of the Palestinian Mission to the Netherlands
• Alon Pinkas – Former Israeli ambassador and consul general in New York

Presenter: James Bays