Bethlehem / PNN / 

The Higher Planning Council, also known as the Israeli Civil Administration,"IOA" is set to discuss 28 new settlement construction plans in the West Bank today, Wednesday, 9/8/2023.

The Israeli "Peace Now" movement stated that the Israeli government "encourages more building plans in the West Bank, including construction in 'Western Ariel,' which will greatly affect the development of the Palestinian city of Salfit."

It mentioned that a plan has been submitted for the approval of approximately 175 housing units in "Western Ariel" in the Ariel settlement.

It pointed out that this area is relatively far from the "Ariel" settlement and is located on land belonging to the Palestinian city of Salfit.

It highlighted that the plan for 175 housing units in "Western Ariel" is not just an expansion of the Ariel settlement with hundreds of housing units. It is a new settlement designed to encircle the Palestinian town of Salfit and effectively prevent Palestinian spatial development in the area. The "Western Ariel" plan is expected to reach thousands of housing units.

The movement stated, "So far, the Higher Planning Council has approved 12,855 housing units in addition to 182 housing units, reaching an unprecedented peak of 13,037 housing units."

It added, "In the 'Alon Moreh' settlement, a plan for the approval of 6 units and public buildings has been submitted. In addition to that, in the 'Alfe Menashe' settlement, a plan is being submitted for the approval of one housing unit."

It added, "These three plans collectively enhance a total of 182 housing units."

"Peace Now" pointed out that the rest of the plans to be discussed involve re-dividing lands and increasing building heights for existing structures or approved plans, with the enhancement of some public buildings and commercial areas.

It stated, "Discussions at the Higher Planning Council often occur due to the Israeli government's decision to grant exclusive authority to Minister Smotrich for building in the occupied lands, allowing the committee to convene without the need for approval from the higher political leadership during different planning stages, deviating from previous practice. This change allows for an increase in Higher Planning Council discussion sessions."

It added, "In July, reports in the Israeli media indicated that Prime Minister Netanyahu had promised President Biden to halt construction in settlements until the end of the year or at least until October. However, construction in the West Bank continues unabated and even accelerates."

It continued, "In addition to 182 housing units, there are plans for the Yeshiva High School in Beit El, public buildings in Modi'in Ilit and Emmanuel, and more."

The "Peace Now" movement emphasized that the Israeli government continues to enhance settlement building deep within the West Bank, as promised by Minister Smotrich to his constituents.

It stated, "This is another example of the government's policy, effectively transferring authority over the West Bank to Minister Smotrich. The Israeli government is openly and knowingly working to undermine the prospects of a two-state solution."