Israel Officially Recognizes Four New Settlements in West Bank

Israel's Ministry of Interior has officially recognized four new settlements in the West Bank, concluding lengthy approval processes. The move is part of a broader regional development plan spearheaded by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, according to Channel 14.

The most significant development is the establishment of the new city of Shira, located east of Rosh Ha'ayin in the Samaria Regional Council. Spanning approximately 9,500 dunams near Highway 5, the city is planned to accommodate tens of thousands of new housing units. The Israeli Security Cabinet had previously approved the creation of Shira in December 2025.

Also officially recognized are three other communities. Har Bazak in Samaria gained official status following a cabinet decision last year, strengthening its strategic position in the Har Bazak corridor. In Gush Etzion, the community of Pnei Kedem, founded 26 years ago, has completed its legal formalization, enabling its expansion and development as an independent locality. The fourth new settlement is Kerem Ya'ar, also in Gush Etzion, situated at a strategic point overlooking Highway 60.

The official recognition of these communities paves the way for substantial infrastructure funding, road construction, and accelerated housing development in the region.