Israel poised to start construction of bypass through heart of West Bank

The construction of the bypass road reflects a significant escalation in Israel's settlement policies, which have long been criticized for their impact on Palestinian communities. By closing off key areas of the West Bank, Israel not only strengthens its territorial claims but also raises further questions about the future of peace negotiations. The boldness of the Israeli government's stance, particularly the remarks from Finance Minister Smotrich, signals a shift towards a more aggressive approach to settlement expansion, which could provoke international condemnation and exacerbate tensions in the region.