Israel Expands Settlements and Advances into Gaza City

The Israeli government has approved plans for a controversial settlement project in the E1 area of the West Bank, despite international opposition. The project, which includes 3,400 homes, would effectively cut off the occupied West Bank from East Jerusalem and divide the territory in two, potentially ending hopes for a viable Palestinian state. The move has been condemned by the Palestinian Authority, the UK, UN Secretary General, and other countries, who argue it breaches international law and undermines the two-state solution. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who unveiled the plans, stated that the idea of a Palestinian state is 'being erased'. The settlements are considered illegal under international law, and their expansion has risen sharply since Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu returned to power in late 2022.

The Israeli government has begun implementing the first stages of its plan to take control of Gaza City, with the Israeli military advancing into the city and surrounding areas. The move has been met with international condemnation, with the United Nations and other countries criticizing the Israeli government's actions as a violation of international law. The Israeli government's plans have been met with resistance from Palestinians and other countries in the region.

Thousands of Palestinians have fled parts of Gaza City amid airstrikes and advancing Israeli troops, with satellite imagery showing entire tent camps emptied. Israel is considering whether to accept a ceasefire proposal or proceed with a full-scale invasion of the city, where around one million Palestinians are sheltering. The UN has warned of 'catastrophic consequences' for the Palestinians, while the UK Prime Minister has stated that the invasion would 'only bring more bloodshed'. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed his military to prepare for a full-scale invasion and occupation of the city to 'free Gaza from Hamas'.