1
1
Calls to Annex West Bank Settlements - by Stephen Lendman
Israel want at least all valued West Bank territory and all Jerusalem.
Since 1967, Israel established 121 settlements, recognized by the Interior Ministry as "communities." Another 100 unauthorized outposts were built.
In addition, 12 annexed Jerusalem neighborhoods are considered settlements under international law. Moreover, settler enclaves exist in Palestinian East Jerusalem areas. They include:
- the Old City's Muslim Quarter;
- Silwan;
- Sheikh Jarrah;
- Mount of Olives;
- Ras al-'Amud;
- Abu Dis; and
- Jabal al-Mukabber.
Overall, Israeli occupied territory, including settlements, exceeds 40% of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, its choicest parts.
However, for extremist MKs, it's not enough. They want all Judea and Samaria west of the Jordan River, comprising the West Bank and Jerusalem. For now, however, they'll settle for annexing occupied settlements.
On September 27, Haaretz writer Jonathan Lis headlined, "Israel must annex West Bank settlements, right-wing MKs tell Netanyahu," saying:
In response to Palestinians petitioning the UN for statehood, the following MKs responded to their "unilateral" move:
- Likud chairman Ze'ev Elkin;
