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Israel Cabinet Accelerates Settlement Growth in Judea and Samaria

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Security cabinet, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Israel Katz, approved changes to Judea and Samaria's framework to speed settlement growth.
Measures publish land registries and repeal restrictions on property sales to Jews.
Cabinet transferred planning authority for Jewish areas in Hebron to the Civil Administration.
Officials say moves strengthen Israel's presence and normalize life, including boosting municipal services at Rachel’s Tomb and renewing a land-acquisitions committee.

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Story summary

Security cabinet, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Israel Katz, approved changes to Judea and Samaria's framework to speed settlement growth.
Measures publish land registries and repeal restrictions on property sales to Jews.
Cabinet transferred planning authority for Jewish areas in Hebron to the Civil Administration.
Officials say moves strengthen Israel's presence and normalize life, including boosting municipal services at Rachel’s Tomb and renewing a land-acquisitions committee.