Hamas Condemns Israeli Plan to Expand West Bank Settlements

The Palestinian movement Hamas has condemned Israel’s plan to build 12,000 new settlement units in the occupied West Bank, describing the proposal as a “dangerous and criminal” step toward the annexation of Palestinian territory. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hamas said the expansion was part of Israel’s broader effort to strengthen its control over the occupied West Bank through land confiscation and the displacement of Palestinian residents.

The criticism follows Israel’s approval on Monday of a reported $2.3 billion framework agreement aimed at expanding settlements and upgrading related infrastructure in the occupied West Bank. Israeli media said the initiative is expected to accelerate settlement construction and modernize infrastructure supporting existing and future communities in the territory.

Hamas called on Palestinian factions to adopt a unified stance, strengthen resistance, and intensify opposition to Israeli settlement policies. Israel considers many of the settlements important for its security and historical claims, while much of the international community regards the settlements in the occupied West Bank as illegal under international law, a position Israel disputes.