Palestine Monitor
7 October 2009
According to ‘Peace Now’, one of Israel’s largest NGO’s, constructions has begun in 34 settlements over the last 3 months. Its thought that negotiations for a settlement freeze will only apply to new construction projects and building work that has already begun will be considered ‘facts on the ground’. This clause would exempt 2,400 units currently in various stages of construction.
Settlements are a highly contentious issue and will be a crucial part of any future deal. Under the 2002 Roadmap for Peace Israel was expected to ’dismantle settlement outposts erected since 2001 and also freeze all settlement activities’ however settlement development has continued unabated. Its reported that 270,000 Israeli citizens now live in 121 West Bank settlements. The infrastructure created to support each settlement, including roads and military checkpoints, absorb an estimated 40% of West Bank land.
ReplyDeleteDisgraceful.