Israel Approves 2,162 Settlement Units in West Bank Expansion

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich approved 2,162 new housing units in West Bank settlements on Wednesday, with 1,006 units designated for a new settlement near Jerusalem. The approvals span three locations in Area C, where Smotrich oversees civilian administration. The move will likely intensify friction with the EU and UN, which regard settlements as violations of international law. Construction typically takes 18-36 months.