Israeli Authorities Approve 229 New Housing Units in West Bank, Doubling Atneil Settlement

The Higher Planning Council approved 229 new housing units in the West Bank on Wednesday, advancing the Israeli government's policy to strengthen settlements in the region. Among the approvals, a plan for 156 housing units in the Atneil settlement in the Hebron Hills was authorized, a move expected to double the size of the community. This approval follows extensive efforts to overcome objections and will enable the absorption of hundreds of new residents in Atneil.

In addition to Atneil, the council authorized 52 housing units in Kfar Adumim and 21 units in Elkana. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich praised the decision, stating it represents a significant breakthrough for Atneil, which has endured numerous terror attacks over the years. He emphasized that the expansion fortifies Israeli presence in the area and counters left-wing intentions to evacuate settlements, thereby undermining plans to establish a "terror state" in the heart of the country.

Smotrich thanked the Civil Administration and the Settlement Administration for leading the process, framing the approvals as part of a national effort to secure Israeli sovereignty and enhance security in the West Bank. The decision aligns with the government's broader strategy to reinforce settlement activity amid ongoing security and political challenges.