Israel's Security Cabinet Approves New Rules to Tighten Control Over West Bank, Drawing Widespread Condemnation

Tel Aviv. Israel's Security Cabinet has approved new regulations to further strengthen control over the West Bank. This move has been widely criticized by the Palestinian leadership and other countries in the region.

According to local media, the new rules will make it easier for Israeli settlers to purchase land privately in the West Bank and will further expand the legal authority of Israeli officials over Palestinians there.

The Palestinian Presidential Office called the decision "dangerous," stating it is an attempt to legitimize the expansion of illegal settlements and land confiscation. The office of President Mahmoud Abbas has called on the United States and the UN Security Council to intervene immediately.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry also criticized the move, accusing it of aiming to impose illegal Israeli sovereignty. Hamas has called on Palestinians living in the West Bank to intensify their struggle against the occupation and settlers.

According to reports, the new regulations will transfer the management of some religious sites to Israeli officials and increase Israeli surveillance in areas under the Palestinian Authority (PA). Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that the concept of a Palestinian state will be ended forever. Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh commented that this is a serious violation of international law and signed agreements.