THE E1 PROJECT
In 2025, Israel’s policies in the West Bank have been characterized by an acceleration of settlement expansion, increased demolitions, and measures that fragment Palestinian territories, undermining the viability of a two-state solution.
Settlement expansion: The Israeli government has significantly increased settlement activity.
E1 project: In August 2025, Israel gave final approval for the controversial “E1” settlement plan, which aims to build thousands of new housing units. Critics warn this project would effectively cut the West Bank in two, isolating East Jerusalem and preventing the creation of a contiguous Palestinian state.
New settlements: In May 2025, Israel announced it would legalize 22 new Jewish settlements, a move widely condemned as the most extensive expansion in decades.
Record construction: As of September 2025, Israeli authorities had advanced or approved over 20,800 new housing units in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, an unprecedented level of activity.
ANNEXATION EFFORTS:
Political figures have openly advocated for the annexation of the West Bank.In July 2025, the Knesset passed a non-binding motion calling for the “application of Israeli sovereignty” over settlements. Reports indicate that right-wing factions are pushing for plans that would annex up to 82% of the West Bank, leaving only fragmented Palestinian “village blocks”.
Demolitions and displacement: Israeli authorities have ramped up demolitions of Palestinian structures. Between January and September 2025, 1,288 Palestinian structures were demolished, marking a significant increase over the previous year. These demolitions have displaced more than 1,400 people.
Violence and restrictions: Violence from both Israeli forces and settlers has intensified. New Israeli bypass roads further restrict Palestinian movement, isolating villages and making travel difficult.
Posted by Irv Himelblau