Israel Approves New Rules for West Bank Amid Annexation Speculation

Israeli Government Announces Changes to Land Registration Rules in West Bank

The Israeli cabinet announced changes to land registration rules in the occupied West Bank on Sunday, allowing Jewish individuals to purchase property in the territory and making it easier for Israelis to identify the owners of land. The new rules also grant Israel authority over building permits for illegal settlements in Hebron and the Ibrahimi Mosque compound.

Moataz Abu Sneina, director of the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, expressed concern over the changes, stating that they reflect a clear intention to increase Israeli control over the Old City and the mosque compound. The site is considered a Palestinian national symbol and an important Islamic holy site, as well as a revered Jewish site.

Abu Sneina noted that Israel has repeatedly attempted to strengthen its foothold in Hebron and the mosque, with previous measures including dividing the site into Jewish and Muslim prayer areas and restricting access to worshippers. The latest government moves are seen as part of a systematic policy aimed at complete control over the holy site.

Mohannad al-Jaabari, director of the Hebron Rehabilitation Committee, warned that the changes are part of a broader effort by Israel to take control of the city, including the confiscation of shops and the construction of illegal settlement units. Al-Jaabari stated that the ultimate goal is to establish a Jewish quarter linking settlements to the Ibrahimi Mosque compound.

The Israeli government’s moves have been met with alarm among Palestinians, who fear that the new rules will lead to defacto annexation of the West Bank. The changes are seen as part of Israel’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its control over the occupied territory.

Source: Al Jazeera