Israel's control over security and planning in 60% of the West Bank is a legacy of the Oslo peace accords, signed three decades ago. This control has allowed Israeli settlers to expand their presence significantly, despite widespread international opposition. The international community, including the United Nations' top court and most countries, regard these settlements as illegal, viewing the West Bank as occupied territory. Over the past few years, violent attacks have driven over 20 Palestinian communities from their homes, with settlers increasingly targeting new areas outside Israel's interim civil control.
Permits for Palestinian homes in the West Bank are rarely granted, leading to a precarious situation for local communities. Additionally, the Israeli government has demolished several buildings in the area, including one deemed illegal by an Israeli court. Despite these challenges, the United States has traditionally supported a two-state solution, envisioning a future Palestinian state alongside Israel. President Joe Biden has maintained this stance, emphasizing a balanced approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
However, the political landscape shifted with former President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and Israeli sovereignty over the occupied Golan Heights. These actions set a precedent for further Israeli expansion in the region. Mike Huckabee, a nominee for Trump's ambassador to Israel, expressed support for Israel's claims on the West Bank, stating:
"When people use the term 'occupied', I say: 'Yes, Israel is occupying the land, but it's the occupation of a land that God gave them 3,500 years ago. It is their land,'" – Mike Huckabee
Yisrael Gantz, head of the regional settlement council overseeing Karnei Shomron, noted a change in tone from the incoming Trump administration. He observed:
"Both here in Israel and in the US, they understand that we must apply sovereignty here,"
The sentiment among settlers aligns with Gantz's observations. Many believe that U.S. policy under Trump could bolster their expansion efforts. Sondra Baras, a resident of Karnei Shomron, remarked:
"I do feel different from Tel Aviv," – Sondra Baras
"I do not live in occupied territory; I live in Biblical Judea and Samaria." – Sondra Baras
Settlers have built homes on private Palestinian land in places like Karnei Shomron. The Israeli government faces accusations of allowing such encroachments, contributing to the displacement of Palestinian communities. The shift in U.S. policy has fueled aspirations for greater Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank. Some officials within the Trump administration have expressed support for these claims, marking a potential departure from previous diplomatic norms.
While President Biden continues to uphold the traditional two-state solution framework, there is growing skepticism among settlers about its viability. Gantz reflected on this sentiment, stating:
"It's a process. I can't tell you it will be tomorrow. But in my eyes, the dream of a two-state solution is dead."
The evolving geopolitical landscape leaves many wondering about the future of the West Bank. Bezalel Smotrich, an influential figure among settlers, articulated his vision for the region:
"2025 must be the year of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria," – Bezalel Smotrich
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