In a strategic move, Israel has announced the integration of approximately 650 acres of land in proximity to Ma'ale Adumim, a prominent Jewish community within Judea adjacent to jerusalem, into its territorial jurisdiction. This decision, disclosed by the Civil Administration under the aegis of Israel's Defense Ministry, encompasses an area totaling 2,640 dunams (652 acres). Despite the significant land incorporation, sources close to the matter have indicated that there are currently no immediate plans to commence construction on this newly designated territory.
This development is part of a broader initiative by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration, which is poised to implement a series of bold measures aimed at augmenting Israel's territorial footprint in Judea and Samaria (also referred to as the West Bank). In an imminent move, authorities are set to declare an additional 3,000 dunams (approximately 750 acres) adjacent to the Ma’ale Adumim settlement as "state land." This declaration is a preliminary step that paves the way for the future expansion of the settlement, highlighting Israel's commitment to bolstering its presence in the area.
Interesting that Israel gave back so much land after 1967, huh? The Sinai and West Bank. Even gave Palestinians control of Gaza in 2005. Doesn't seem to fit your narrative of the land hungry Jew. pic.twitter.com/nKNQGa9LRT
— Ken Arrow 🇮🇱✡ (@KennethArrow__) February 27, 2024
Further emphasizing this expansionist agenda, the Defense Ministry's High Planning Subcommittee is scheduled to meet next week to propel plans forward for the construction of over 3,000 new homes across several settlements, including Ma’ale Adumim, Efrat, and Keidar. This initiative, championed by the far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, underscores a significant push towards extending Israeli settlements in the region.
Moreover, on March 20, Israel plans to designate an additional 7,000 dunams (1,730 acres) of land in the strategic Jordan Valley as "state land." This move signifies a continued effort to consolidate Israel's territorial claims and presence in key areas.
It is important to note that these territorial designations by Israel, including the recent incorporation of land near Ma'ale Adumim, are met with international scrutiny. The global community, which largely calls Judea and Samaria "occupied territory" despite Israel having won the land in defensive wars and holding administration of the land since 1967, has not recognized these unilateral land designations. However, these actions reflect Israel's ongoing strategy to ensure its security and fortify its position in the region, amidst complex geopolitical challenges.
