Israel's government has approved nineteen new settlements. These are in the occupied West Bank. This decision was supported by far-right ministers. The goal is to stop a Palestinian state from being created. Palestinians want their own state. This has been a main goal for them.
Settlements in the West Bank are often seen as against international law. They have made peace talks difficult before. The current Israeli government has made this policy stronger since 2022. They are now making old, unapproved outposts official. They call them "neighbourhoods" of existing settlements. This government has now approved sixty-nine settlements. This shows they want to control more land.
This expansion happens during the war in Gaza. The war started in October 2023. The conflict has increased violence. It also raises worries that settlements will make a Palestinian state impossible. Gaza's health ministry warns of medical shortages. Many medicines are not available. There are not enough medical supplies. This makes healthcare difficult for many people.
At the same time, Israeli defence companies are making a lot of money. In 2024, their exports grew by 13 percent. They earned almost $15 billion. Demand for weapons like missiles has increased. Many of these exports go to Europe. This boom in weapons sales happens while Israel faces international criticism.