Netanyahu Orders Evacuation of Illegal West Bank Outposts Amid US Pressure

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the dismantling of illegal settlement outposts in Judea and Samaria, according to two sources familiar with the matter who spoke to Reuters. The decision reportedly follows pressure from the United States, which is urging Israel to take action against settler violence targeting Palestinians. Israeli law considers these outposts illegal as they are established without proper permits, although many receive state funding and some later gain official status. The timeline for the operation remains unclear. Earlier reports indicated that around 100 outposts were subject to these directives, and similar demolitions have occurred previously, with the outposts often being rebuilt afterward. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich confirmed Netanyahu's instruction to evacuate residents from facilities located in Areas A and B. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Harkabi has called for strong measures against settlers, accusing them of "criminal behavior and terrorism." The Prime Minister's office has not yet commented on the reports.