Israel approves first West Bank settlement in over 20 years

April 2, 2017

's security cabinet unanimously approved on Thursday construction of the first official settlement in over 20 years, continuing a process that many in the international community consider illegal. The new settlement is to be near the city of.

The decision comes after the demolition of, another West Bank settlement, which president vowed to replace. Israel's high court found the settlement was illegally built on land under private Palestinian ownership.

"I had promised from the start that I would create a new settlement. It seems to me that I made that commitment in December and I will keep it today," President Netanyahu told reporters on Thursday.

The international community considers Israeli West Bank settlements illegal and, generally, undermining peace between Israel and Palestine. Outgoing president  used his final interview to criticise Israel's West Bank policy.

"Today's announcement," said executive committee member, "once again proves that Israel is more committed to appeasing its illegal settler population than to abiding by the requirements for stability and a just peace."

Over half a million Israelis live in settlements on the West Bank and in the eastern parts of. Israel cites security needs and connection to the land as justifications for construction on the West Bank.