Israel poised to start construction of bypass through heart of West Bank

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Emma Graham-HarrisonJanuary 13, 2026 at 10:37 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Israel is set to begin construction next month on a bypass road in the occupied West Bank, a project critics say will further isolate Palestinian communities and facilitate the expansion of Israeli settlements. The road, located in the E1 area east of Jerusalem, is intended to create a transit corridor for Palestinians, while allowing Israel to restrict Palestinian access to existing roads in the area. Israeli officials have stated the project aims to strengthen Israel's control over the West Bank and undermine the possibility of a future Palestinian state. Opponents argue the bypass will divide the West Bank, further isolate East Jerusalem, and lead to the displacement of Palestinian communities, including the demolition of homes in As Saraiya. Affected Palestinians have been given 45 days to object to the construction.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Bethlehem 30% Neta Amar-Sheif 30% Ramallah 30% Peace Now 35% Israel Katz 40% Hagit Ofran ×240% Naftali Bennett 50% Jerusalem ×260% Bezalel Smotrich 60% Palestinians ×685% Israel ×490% West Bank ×795%

Keywords

west bank 100% bypass road 90% annexation 80% palestinian state 80% settlement expansion 80% israeli settlements 70% e1 area 70% occupied territory 60% road construction 50% ethnic cleansing 50%