Jerusalem, Palestine – Jerusalem Governorate spokesperson Marouf al-Rifai warned that the decision to register land in the West Bank is part of Israeli efforts to implement a broad annexation plan for Palestinian territories. This plan has been previously hinted at by several Israeli officials.
Al-Rifai explained that this step represents a dangerous shift in Israeli policies toward the West Bank. He also indicated that it could lead to fundamental changes in the legal and administrative status of Palestinian lands.
Prelude to implementing the annexation plan
Al-Rifai pointed out that the decision to register the land comes within the context of implementing the annexation plan threatened by Israeli government ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. He also emphasized that this step seeks to impose new realities on the ground.
He added that the Israeli measures aim to reshape the geographical and legal map of the West Bank to serve settlement expansion. He also said that they undermine the chances of establishing an independent Palestinian state.
Seizure of more than 55% of the West Bank lands
The Palestinian official explained that the decision could lead to the confiscation of more than 55% of the West Bank. This poses a direct threat to Palestinian rights to their land and property.
He emphasized that these measures will allow Israel to exert greater control over large areas of land, particularly in areas that have witnessed rapid settlement expansion in recent years.
Cancellation of the Oslo Accords classifications
Al-Rifai pointed out that the decision would also lead to the cancellation of the geographical classifications agreed upon in the Oslo Accords, which divided the West Bank into Areas A, B, and C.
He noted that this step would legitimize many settlement outposts, especially those located in Area C, by granting them official recognition and registration. This would strengthen the settlement presence and entrench Israeli control over large parts of the West Bank.
