Israel Gives Itself More Control Over Occupied West Bank

New York Times - World Political StrategyNews ReportEN 6 min read 100% complete by David M. Halbfinger and Isabel KershnerFebruary 9, 2026 at 07:55 PM

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Palestine urges ‘powerful partners’ to stop Israel’s West Bank ‘annexation’

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long article 6 min

In February 2026, Israel's security cabinet made changes to West Bank policy, granting itself greater control over the occupied territory. The measures, decided in a closed-door meeting, ease land acquisition for Jewish settlers and undermine the Palestinian Authority in areas it administers. Critics say these actions violate the Oslo Accords and international law, accelerating annexation efforts. The changes come after President Trump's rejection of annexation and support for Israeli-Palestinian talks. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated the goal is to deepen Israeli roots in the West Bank and bury the idea of a Palestinian state. These actions occur amidst increased Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank following the Hamas-led attack in 2023.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

Eight Arab and Muslim countries denounced the latest changes.

factual — The New York Times100% confidence

We are deepening our roots in all parts of the Land of Israel and burying the idea of a Palestinian state.

quote — Bezalel Smotrich100% confidence

The measures make it easier for Jewish settlers to buy land.

factual — The New York Times90% confidence

Israel's government has taken steps to give itself greater control over the occupied West Bank.

factual — The New York Times90% confidence

Military operations have resulted in the biggest displacement of Palestinian civilians since 1967.

factual — The New York Times80% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Land of Israel 30% Gaza Strip ×240% Hamas 40% Oslo Accords 50% Palestinians ×360% Bezalel Smotrich ×260% Palestinian Authority 70% Donald Trump ×370% Benjamin Netanyahu ×380% West Bank ×890% Israel ×790%

Keywords

occupied west bank 100% israeli annexation 80% jewish settlements 70% oslo accords 70% palestinian authority 60% international law 60% palestinian state 50% benjamin netanyahu 50% trump peace plan 40% security cabinet 40%