The UN report reveals that Israel has expanded settlements in the occupied West Bank, violating international law. UN High Commissioner Volker Turk deems these actions as war crimes and urges global intervention. The presence of around 700,000 Israeli settlers raises serious humanitarian concerns for the 2.7 million Palestinians living in the area.
According to a recent report by the United Nations human rights office, Israel has significantly expanded its settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, in violation of international law. The report, which covers the period from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2024, highlights the construction of tens of thousands of housing units in both new and existing settlements, raising concerns about the future of Palestinian territories. This report is set to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council following growing fears of potential annexation as US policy evolves under President Donald Trump.
UN High Commissioner Volker Turk expressed grave concerns regarding the settlement activities, stating, “The transfer by Israel of parts of its own civilian population into the territory it occupies amounts to a war crime.” He has called on the international community to act decisively to halt these actions, insisting that Israel must cease settlement activities and evacuate settlers while stopping the forced transfer of Palestinians.
Currently, there are approximately 700,000 Israeli settlers residing among 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, regions captured by Israel in 1967. Most nations deem the Israeli settlements on this territory illegal. The Israeli military, however, asserts that it is performing counter-terrorism operations aimed at suspected militants within these areas.
Moreover, the report states that the increased provision of Israeli government services within these settlements perpetuates a cycle of systemic discrimination and oppression against the Palestinian populace, constituting various inhumane acts. The findings emphasize the urgent need for international attention and intervention in this ongoing situation.
In summary, the UN report underscores significant Israeli settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, highlighting serious legal and humanitarian concerns. The call from UN High Commissioner Volker Turk for immediate cessation of settlement activities reflects the urgency of this issue amidst changing US policies. With a substantial Israeli settler population now present, the report warns of systemic patterns of oppression against Palestinians, necessitating global action to address these violations of international law.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
