New Israeli settlement plans test peace with Palestinians

Israel has gone full force in the last few weeks, approving expansion plans in the occupied West Bank. The news of Israel’s intent to construct thousands of new settler homes in the occupied Palestinian territories has not been received well by the world. The United Nations and the European Union are among those who have come out in condemnation. Israel’s activities have raised concerns by many who believe settlement expansion undermines the possibility of peace.

 

On Thursday, the White House issued a statement saying it did not believe the new settlements would be an impediment to peace but that they “may not be helpful in achieving that goal”.

 

For decades, Israel has illegally built towns in internationally-recognised Palestinian land. But international law and opposition have not stopped the growth of settlements or the widespread demolition of Palestinian homes.

 

In part two of our discussion on Israel’s expansion plans, The Stream looks at how this could impact prospects for peace between Palestinians and Israelis, and the role the international community plays in all of this.
 

In this episode of The Stream, we speak with:
 

Suhad Bishara @AdalahEnglish
Director, Land and Planning Rights Unit, Adalah
adalah.org

Ata Hindi @AtaRHindi
International Human Rights Lawyer

Emanuel Miller @emanumiller
Political Analyst

Josh Hasten @Joshhasten
Talk Radio Host, The Land of Israel
thelandofisrael.com

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