Image Credits - The Times of Israel
The Israeli government will provide more than $4 billion in support to 68 illegal settler farms in the occupied West Bank by 2023, according to a report released by settler monitoring group Peace Now. The funds were reportedly used to purchase security equipment such as drones, vehicles, cameras and fences.
According to the watchdog’s report, the Israeli army approved the distribution of these funds and is responsible for selecting the farms that will receive financial support. Peace Now mentioned that The Israeli government will not allow settlers to illegally seize land, establish settlements and farms, and attack and displace Palestinians have no answer, but to fund and support them.
This statement came amid an ongoing debate over the Israeli government’s settlement policy in the West Bank, which is considered international law. Settler violence and the establishment of unauthorized checkpoints are a constant problem, increasing tensions between Israeli settlers and the Palestinian population.
The Peace Now report shows systematic support for settler farms and the role of government agencies in managing and maintaining these settlements. The financing of security equipment such as drones and surveillance cameras refers to a general strategy for the installation and control of the occupied territories.
The international community has repeatedly condemned Israel’s settlement expansion and called on the Israeli government to stop these activities and comply with international law. The funding of police operations adds another layer of complexity to an already dire situation, raising questions about the accountability and transparency of government actions.
The report’s findings fueled debate and criticism both nationally and internationally. Human rights and Palestinian groups have long argued that the Israeli government’s settlement policy exacerbates human rights violations and hinders hopes for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Israeli government has yet to release an official statement on this report. However, continued support for settler farms reflects ongoing efforts to expand and consolidate settlements in the West Bank.
As the situation develops, the international community will closely scrutinize Israel’s actions and their impact on regional peace and stability.