Palestinian officials are sharply condemning recent decisions by Israel’s security cabinet concerning the occupied West Bank. Describing them as “dangerous,” “unacceptable,” and even “criminal,” Palestinian leaders warn these steps aim to deepen de facto annexation and undermine their fundamental rights.
The new measures alter the legal and civil framework in the West Bank, significantly expanding Israel’s control. This includes extending enforcement powers into areas previously administered by the Palestinian Authority (known as Areas A and B under the Oslo Accords). Such moves could lead to demolitions and property seizures even in these Palestinian-controlled zones, citing issues like unlicensed construction or damage to sites.
One particularly contentious decision involves transferring authority over the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron from the local Palestinian municipality to Israel’s Civil Administration, directly contradicting existing agreements. Additionally, reports suggest plans to repeal a Jordanian-era law preventing the sale of Palestinian land to Jews, making land acquisition easier for Israeli authorities.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s office stated these decisions amount to a “continuation of a comprehensive war” and “practical implementation of annexation and displacement plans.” They pose a serious threat to regional stability and violate international law. Both the Foreign Ministry and the Fatah movement echoed these concerns, calling the measures a “war crime” and a strategy to erase Palestinian presence.
The international community, especially the UN Security Council, is being urged to intervene immediately to halt these developments. This escalating situation highlights deep-seated tensions and the fragile future of peace in the region.
