Israel Approves 567 New Housing Units in West Bank Settlements

Israel's Supreme Planning Council has approved the construction of 567 new housing units in two settlements in the Hebron Regional Council, located in the West Bank. The plan includes 342 units in Asa'el, which will lead to the regularization of the settlement established in 2001, where about 100 families currently live in temporary housing. This approval, after 25 years, will allow for Asa'el's final status and expansion.

Additionally, 225 housing units were approved for Bet Hagai, a settlement founded in 1983. Officials estimate this plan will double the size of Bet Hagai within a few years. Finance Minister and Deputy Defense Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who championed the approvals, stated that strengthening settlements in the Hebron region is crucial for Israel's stability, security, and resilience, impacting nearby cities like Kiryat Gat, Lachish, Lehavim, and Beersheba.

Smotrich contrasted the current government's actions with a hypothetical "government of Eizenkot-Lieberman-Golan" that he claimed would evacuate settlements and establish a Palestinian state. He asserted that by regularizing Asa'el and doubling Bet Hagai, they are acting decisively to strengthen Israeli presence. He also thanked the Civil Administration and the Settlement Directorate for their role.

Eliyram Azulai, head of the Hebron Regional Council, hailed the decision as a "historic announcement" and a "first-class Zionist step" that counters any attempts to undermine Israeli control of the land. He emphasized the expansion of communities and the absorption of new families as part of a significant development momentum to strengthen Judea.