Israel’s parliament has approved a resolution granting legal status to 19 Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, intensifying regional tensions and prompting sharp condemnation from Palestinian leaders.
The measure, presented by right-wing finance and defence ministers, formalizes outposts long considered illegal under international law and deepens concerns about Israel’s long-term intentions.
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In response, the Palestinian Authority condemned the move as a direct step toward the destruction of Palestine, accusing Israel of enforcing racial discrimination and tightening permanent control over occupied territories.
Palestinian officials warned that such actions severely weaken the two-state solution and undermine international efforts aimed at achieving a fair and lasting peace.
Moreover, they cautioned that continued settlement growth risks fueling instability across an already volatile region.
Meanwhile, tensions also flared on Israel’s northern border, where the Israeli military announced it had temporarily suspended a planned strike in southern Lebanon.
The operation reportedly targeted what Israel described as Hezbollah military infrastructure, despite an existing ceasefire designed to halt hostilities after more than a year of fighting.
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Earlier, Israeli forces had issued evacuation warnings to residents in the Yanuh area, signaling an imminent attack before the suspension was announced hours later.
Lebanese security sources said the army initially faced resistance from residents while attempting to search the building but later gained access after civilians evacuated, fearing an airstrike.
The ceasefire monitoring mechanism, involving international stakeholders, continues to oversee compliance as both sides trade accusations and maintain high alert levels.