The Jewish population in the West Bank experienced a growth rate that was double that of the general Israeli population last year, according to a report by WestBankJewishPopulationStats.com. The report, based on official government figures, revealed that the West Bank's Jewish-settler population increased by approximately 2.3%, adding over 12,000 individuals and reaching a total of 529,450 settlers.
While this growth rate was slightly lower than the previous year's 2.9%, it still outpaced the 1.1% population growth rate within Israel proper. The advocacy group behind the report expressed optimism that the number of Jewish settlers in the West Bank could significantly rise under the current U.S. administration.
Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and has since established around 130 settlements and numerous outposts in the region. The presence of these settlements has been a point of contention, with Palestinians viewing them as obstacles to achieving independence.
The International Court of Justice recently ruled that the occupation of the West Bank was illegal and constituted a violation of Palestinians' right to self-determination. The court also criticized Israeli policies in the territories, citing 'systemic discrimination' based on religion, race, or ethnic origin.
Despite international opposition to the settlements, the Trump administration had shown support for Israel's settlement expansion plans. Former President Trump's peace proposal included provisions for Israel to annex significant portions of the West Bank and retain all existing settlements.
With the current political landscape in Israel, settler leaders are hopeful for a period of rapid growth in the West Bank. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government includes prominent settler supporters, and plans for increased construction in settlements are underway.
Projections suggest that the Jewish population in the West Bank could surpass 600,000 by 2030, while approximately 3 million Palestinians reside in the region. The report does not include east Jerusalem, where an estimated 340,000 Jewish settlers live.
While settlers argue for the strategic and spiritual significance of maintaining control over the territory, critics warn that continued settlement expansion could fuel conflict. Recent military operations in response to attacks on settlements have raised concerns about escalating tensions in the region.
As the debate over settlements and territorial control continues, the situation in the West Bank remains complex and contentious, with implications for both Israeli and Palestinian populations.
