Israel states that the construction of Jewish settlements in the Palestinian occupied territories has increased by 35% in the past year, despite the peace plan calling for a halt to such activities by Israel. The Israeli Central Bureau of Statistics reported on Tuesday that Israel built 1,850 housing units in the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 2003. The United States is among the countries that have criticized the expansion of settlements. Additionally, on Tuesday, Ahmad Qurei, the Palestinian Prime Minister, stated that Yasser Arafat, the head of the Palestinian Authority, agreed to pay the salaries of security forces through banks instead of cash, a move aimed at increasing financial transparency. Earlier on Tuesday, a longtime advisor to Mr. Arafat was killed by masked armed men in Gaza City.
Israel: Construction of Jewish Settlements in Occupied Territories Increased by 35%
Israel reported a 35% increase in the construction of Jewish settlements in occupied Palestinian territories, contradicting peace efforts. Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmad Qurei announced a shift to bank payments for security forces to enhance financial transparency. The situation highlights ongoing tensions and international criticism regarding settlement expansion.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Israel reported a 35% increase in Jewish settlement construction in occupied Palestinian territories, defying peace efforts. Meanwhile, Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmad Qurei announced a shift to bank payments for security forces to enhance financial transparency.
- 1,850 housing units were built in the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 2003.
- The increase in settlements has drawn criticism from the United States and other countries.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has persisted for decades, with settlement expansion being a contentious issue that complicates peace negotiations.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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