Israel is reportedly poised to approve a contentious plan that would facilitate the construction of over 3,400 new homes in the E1 area, extending the existing Jewish settlement of Ma’ale Adumim towards Jerusalem. This recent development is causing concern on the international stage. It risks cutting occupied East Jerusalem off from the rest of the West Bank and forms a wedge between the northern and southern ends of Palestinian territory.
The truth is that the E1 plan has been bogged down in bureaucratic red tape for decades. It was originally proposed in the early 1990s by then-Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. It has been met with fierce resistance from past Israeli regimes because of the automaticity of international censure. Recent reports indicate that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has renewed discussions regarding the plan, potentially in collaboration with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Though there has been no official announcement of this revival, the damage it suggests is deeply troubling.
Internationally, the E1 plan has faced fierce pushback. Germany’s foreign ministry has publicly opposed these activities, noting that they erode the prospects for peace in the region. The UK Foreign Office called the building new construction “a flagrant breach of international law.” They noted that it endangers the viability of any future Palestinian state.
Bezalel Smotrich, Israel’s Finance Minister, is a strong supporter of the E1 plan. Above all, he believes it signals a commitment to permanent, indigenous settlement in the region. As for those who dare to recognize Palestinian statehood, he said they will receive a real shock from Israel.
“Those in the world trying to recognise a Palestinian state will get an answer from us on the ground,” – Bezalel Smotrich.
Smotrich continued his line of argument, claiming that Israel’s undertakings should be proven by actions and facts—not papers or announcements—on the ground.
“Not through documents, not through decisions or declarations, but through facts. Facts of homes, neighbourhoods, roads and Jewish families building their lives,” – Bezalel Smotrich.
Humanitarian organizations have warned that the construction of the new E1 settlement will increase tensions in an already explosive area. Critics say that it will make it impossible to form a contiguous, viable Palestinian state. We are delighted that the European Union has made such a strong commitment. It rejects any annexation or territorial changes unless such changes are agreed upon by both parties to the conflict.
“The EU rejects any territorial change that is not part of a political agreement between involved parties. So annexation of territory is illegal under international law,” – Anitta Hipper.
When talking about the issue, the U.S. State Department and other officials have been much more careful and specific. A spokesperson noted that maintaining stability in the West Bank is crucial for Israel’s security and aligns with broader efforts to achieve peace in the region.
“A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration’s goal to achieve peace in the region,” – U.S. State Department spokesperson.
Groups such as the Israeli NGO, Peace Now, insist that the Netanyahu government is taking advantage of the moment. They contend that this exploitation is specifically intended to further annexation efforts and make any possibility for a two-state solution impossible. They argue that if these grievances are not addressed, violence and chaos will continue.
“The Netanyahu government is exploiting every minute to deepen the annexation of the West Bank and prevent the possibility of a two-state solution. It is clear to everyone today that the only solution to the conflict, and the only way to defeat Hamas, is through the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel,” – Peace Now.
Debates over the E1 mega plan are getting very contentious. If authorized, this plan would have the potential to transform the region’s geopolitical future. The international community continues to be on the watch as news develops. After all, they’re acutely aware that their choices lay the groundwork for the futures of Israelis and Palestinians alike.