Smotrich takes steps to make his major settlement policy shift harder to reverse

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has formalized the Settlements Administration, established in 2023, as an official agency within the Defense Ministry. This move, made in conjunction with the Defense Ministry and the Civil Service Commission, aims to entrench Smotrich's settlement expansion policies and make them harder for future governments to reverse. Additionally, the term of the civilian head of the Civil Administration, who reports to Smotrich, has been extended from four to six years.

"The decision to anchor the Settlements Administration and the position of deputy head of the Civil Administration will de facto implement the continuation of the settlement revolution and the emphasis and priority on the civilian aspect of life in Judea and Samaria..."

Smotrich's tenure has seen significant settlement growth, including 185 new outposts, approval of over 40,000 housing units, and the legalization of 103 settlements. Critics argue these actions constitute a de facto annexation of the West Bank and an increase in the oppression of Palestinians.