Israel advances West Bank land registration plan

Area C West Bank

Israel has approved a controversial plan to restart land registration across large parts of the occupied West Bank, a move critics warn could significantly expand state control and accelerate de facto annexation. The decision revives “settlement of land title” procedures that were frozen after the 1967 war, requiring anyone claiming land to submit formal proof of ownership once an area is designated for registration.

According to Peace Now, the policy could allow Israel to assert control over most of Area C—the roughly 60% of the West Bank under full Israeli military authority. Hagit Ofran said the process is opaque and onerous, making it difficult for Palestinians to meet evidentiary standards and increasing the likelihood that land reverts to state ownership. She estimates Israel could ultimately take control of up to 83% of Area C.

The move follows months of expanded settlement construction, legalization of outposts, and administrative changes aimed at strengthening Israeli authority while weakening the Palestinian Authority. The plan was backed by far-right members of Israel’s coalition, including Justice Minister Yariv Levin, who said the government is committed to tightening its grip across the territory.

The office of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the decision as a “grave escalation” and a violation of international law, urging intervention from the United Nations Security Council and the United States.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains close ties with Donald Trump, who has opposed formal annexation but has met Netanyahu frequently. The registration process could begin as soon as this year, further heightening tensions in a region widely viewed by the international community as central to a future Palestinian state.

Key Takeaways

• Israel will restart land registration in the West Bank, starting with Area C.

• Critics say the process could transfer most land to Israeli state control.

• Palestinians and rights groups warn the move amounts to de facto annexation.

Israel looks to deepen West Bank control with land registration plans