Israel seizes 600 acres of West Bank land

Israel declares 234 (about 600 acres) hectares of West Bank territory as state land, officials say, leading a watchdog to warn of possible settlement expansion that could increase tensions with Palestinians.

COGAT, the Israeli defense ministry body responsible for implementing government policies in the Palestinian territories, says the move was taken “in accordance with the decision of the political level.”

It gives no further explanation nor more details, but settlement watchdog Peace Now says the land involved is south of the Palestinian city of Jericho and close to the Dead Sea.

Peace Now says the land — equivalent in size to more than 250 soccer fields — is the biggest reclassification since a seizure of 400 hectares in 2014.

The NGO says the order to seize the land was signed on March 10 as US Vice President Joe Biden wrapped up a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, though COGAT refused to comment on the timing.

Palestinians who claim ownership of the land can appeal the decision within 45 days.

Peace Now says the land could help link up and potentially expand local Jewish settlements.

“This declaration is a de facto confiscation of Palestinian lands for the purpose of settlement,” a statement says.

“Instead of trying to calm the situation, the government is adding fuel to the fire.”

— AFP