Experts Warn of Potential Explosive Situation as West Bank Authority Shifts to Smotrich
In a significant policy shift, the Israeli military has transferred extensive legal powers in the West Bank to civil servants under Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. This transfer, effective from May 29, reassigns authority over numerous bylaws at the Civil Administration from the military to officials in the Defense Ministry led by Smotrich. Smotrich’s plan aims to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and further empower West Bank settlers, raising concerns about heightened tensions and instability in the region. Experts warn that these actions could lead to an explosive situation, worsening relations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA).
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Kobi Michael, a senior researcher, and Michael Milshtein, head of the Palestinian Studies Forum, highlight the risks associated with Smotrich’s approach, including undermining the Oslo Accords and exacerbating PA-Israel relations. The situation in the West Bank has deteriorated further due to increased Israeli settler violence and the economic impact of job losses among Palestinian workers. Former officials like Maj. Gen. Eitan Dangot criticize the policy as hypocritical and potentially destabilizing. The article by Giorgia Valente provides an in-depth analysis of the implications of this policy shift and its potential to escalate conflicts in the region.
For a comprehensive understanding of the situation and its broader context, read the full article on The Media Line.
