Researcher in Hebrew affairs, Walaa Abdel Mardi, stated that Israeli policies of land confiscation and house demolition represent an extension of the settlement project aimed at changing the geographical and demographic reality of Palestinian lands, particularly in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. These policies take various forms, including settlement expansion, strict restrictions on construction permits, land confiscation, and expansion of military areas and settlements.
Abdel Mardi explained that these practices increase the difficulty of daily life for Palestinians, especially in areas classified as "C", around East Jerusalem, Masafir Yatta, and the Jordan Valley, exacerbating living pressures on residents and threatening the stability of their communities. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs recorded 397 attacks by settlers that resulted in injuries or property damage between October 1 and 26, the highest monthly rate since documentation began in 2006.
The primary goal of these policies is to consolidate Israeli control over Palestinian lands, expand settlements, and undermine the chances of establishing a connected and viable Palestinian state. The researcher highlighted the danger of the "E1" settlement project east of Jerusalem, which threatens the geographical connection between Jerusalem and the West Bank areas, in addition to its risks to surrounding Palestinian communities and the possibility of their forced displacement.
The International Court of Justice concluded in its advisory opinion issued in July 2024 that the continuation of Israeli presence in the occupied Palestinian territories is illegal, confirming that settlement and annexation policies violate international law. Some Israeli political forces have announced their support for annexing large parts of the West Bank and proposed ideas related to transferring populations or encouraging their migration.
However, Abdel Mardi emphasized the need to distinguish between declared political statements and positions and the existence of an approved and comprehensive plan to implement this scenario. She added that the continuation of house demolitions, destruction of livelihoods, and imposition of restrictions on residents can create a coercive living environment that pushes Palestinians to leave their areas, even without direct deportation decisions.
Regarding the impact of the Israeli elections held on October 27, 2026, on the future of settlement and annexation, Abdel Mardi explained that the results do not represent the beginning of current settlement policies, which are based on extended decisions and projects over the years. The situation of political instability and elections may make the files of annexation and settlement important cards in the negotiations to form the next government coalition.
The current policies and practices are pushing Palestinians to forced departure, and the international community is concerned about the escalating situation. The settlement expansion and house demolitions have been widely condemned, and efforts are being made to revive the stalled peace process.
Key points
- Israeli settlement policies are creating an environment that pushes Palestinians to forced departure.
- The International Court of Justice has concluded that the continuation of Israeli presence in the occupied Palestinian territories is illegal.
- The situation of political instability and elections may impact the future of settlement and annexation policies.
