Following Donald Trump's victory in the recent U.S. elections, Jewish West Bank settlement advocates celebrated with champagne and dancing at a winery in the occupied territory. The winery even announced a special edition red wine named after the president-elect.
During Trump's first term, housing expansion for Jews in the West Bank reached record levels, and his administration took significant steps to support Israel's territorial claims. This included recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital, moving the U.S. Embassy there, and acknowledging Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights.
Settlement advocates are hopeful that Trump's unwavering support could lead to the annexation of the West Bank, a move that critics fear would hinder Palestinian statehood aspirations. Some are even considering the resettlement of Gaza under a Trump administration.
Israel captured the West Bank, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek these territories for their future state. Settlement expansion in the West Bank has surged during Israel's occupation, with over half a million Israelis residing in approximately 130 settlements and numerous unauthorized outposts.
Trump's first term saw a shift in U.S. policy towards settlements, with his administration supporting their existence. While his Mideast plan allowed for a Palestinian state, critics deemed it unrealistic. The normalization agreements brokered by Trump between Israel and Arab nations delayed West Bank annexation.
Despite uncertainties about Trump's second term policies, his pro-Israel stance suggests continued support for settlement building. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, with key settler leaders in positions of power, could further expand settlements in the West Bank.
Under Trump, Israel advanced nearly 33,000 housing units in the West Bank, a significant increase compared to previous administrations. The Biden administration imposed sanctions on settlers involved in violence against Palestinians, a measure likely to change under Trump.
While Palestinians and many in the international community view settlements as illegal and obstacles to peace, Israel sees the West Bank as integral to its historical and biblical heritage. Peace talks have stalled, and support for a Palestinian state among Israelis has waned.
Settler advocates anticipate continued expansion under Trump's presidency, aiming to solidify their presence in the West Bank through increased infrastructure and housing projects. Despite differing opinions on Trump's future actions, settler leaders remain optimistic about his support for their cause.
