WEB DESK: Israel’s parliament has passed a measure recognizing 19 Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank as legal, a decision that prompted swift criticism from the Palestinian Authority.
International media reported that the proposal was put forward by Israel’s right-wing finance and defence ministers.
The Palestinian Authority strongly condemned the move, calling it a step toward the “elimination of Palestine.” It accused Israel of advancing de facto annexation, deepening discriminatory policies, and tightening its grip over Palestinian land.
The development comes at a time of heightened regional strain, fueling fears that prospects for peace — including the feasibility of a two-state solution — are rapidly diminishing. Palestinian officials warned that such actions further erode chances for a just and lasting settlement to the long-running conflict.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced it had “temporarily” halted a planned strike in southern Lebanon that was scheduled for Saturday. The strike was said to be aimed at Hezbollah military facilities.
A ceasefire brokered in November 2024 sought to halt more than a year of clashes between Israel and Hezbollah that erupted following the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023.
Despite the truce, Israel has continued airstrikes in Lebanon, often stating that the attacks are meant to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military capabilities. Earlier on Saturday, the Israeli army issued an evacuation warning to residents of the Yanuh area, citing an imminent strike.
Later, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said in an Arabic-language statement that the operation had been paused, noting that Israeli forces were still monitoring the site. He said the decision followed a request from the Lebanese army to re-enter the location and address what Israel claims was a violation of the ceasefire agreement.
Adraee stressed that Israel would not permit Hezbollah to reposition or rearm.
The ceasefire is overseen by a monitoring body that includes the United Nations, the United States, and France. A Lebanese security official told AFP that the army had initially been unable to inspect the targeted building due to objections from local residents. However, during a second attempt, the army gained access after residents evacuated, fearing an Israeli strike
