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Israel Tightens Control Over West Bank Ahead of Netanyahu's US Visit

KVIA•Sunday, February 8, 2026 at 6:20 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

In anticipation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, Israel's Security Cabinet has approved significant measures to strengthen its control over the West Bank. These actions include the expansion of Israeli law in Areas A and B, which are under Palestinian security control, and the reactivation of a land acquisition committee aimed at increasing settlement expansion. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasized that these changes would fundamentally alter the legal landscape in the region, which is internationally recognized as territory for a future Palestinian state. The Palestinian Authority condemned these measures as an escalation of occupation and a direct threat to Palestinian rights, while critics argue that Israel's policies equate to de facto annexation.

Key Details: • New measures approved by Israel's Security Cabinet aim to expand settlements in the West Bank. • Areas A and B, which make up about 40% of the West Bank, will see increased Israeli law enforcement. • Palestinian Authority has condemned these actions as a continuation of war against Palestinians. • Smotrich has openly stated intentions to eliminate the idea of a Palestinian state.

international-relations settlements netanyahu palestinian-authority west-bank

People & Organizations

Benjamin NetanyahuBezalel SmotrichWest BankPeace NowHamasPalestinian AuthorityHazem QassemHebron

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