UN Security Council members blast Israel's West Bank plans on eve of Trump's Board of Peace meeting - AP News
AP News
February 22, 2026
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UN Security Council members strongly condemned Israel's plans to expand settlements in the West Bank ahead of a crucial meeting involving US President Donald Trump's "Board of Peace." This criticism underscores growing international concern over Israel's territorial expansions, which many view as undermining peace efforts in the region. The timing of these condemnations, just before Trump's initiative to promote Middle East stability, highlights the tension between Israel's policies and global expectations for conflict resolution.
Israel's settlement expansion in the West Bank has long been a contentious issue. The UN and much of the international community regard such actions as illegal under international law, arguing that they infringe on Palestinian rights and hinder peace negotiations. These settlements are seen as part of Israel's broader strategy to assert territorial claims, while Palestinians view them as a tool for displacing communities and limiting their autonomy.
The criticism from Security Council members reflects deeper divisions over how to approach the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some countries support Israel's right to self-defense and sovereignty, others emphasize the need for Palestinian rights and territorial compromise. Trump's "Board of Peace" initiative aims to facilitate dialogue and promote stability but has faced skepticism from both sides. The US administration's alignment with Israel on settlement issues complicates its role as a mediator.
This situation matters because it shapes the trajectory of peace efforts in the region. Settlement expansions not only strain relations between Israel and neighboring countries but also raise concerns about the feasibility of a two-state solution. As global leaders weigh in, the outcome could influence broader Middle East stability and US foreign policy credibility. The interplay between Trump's initiative and international criticism will likely set the stage for future negotiations and regional dynamics.
The stakes are high as the world watches how these developments unfold. Whether through diplomatic pressure or continued defiance, Israel's settlement policies will continue to spark debates on sovereignty, peace, and international law in the Middle East.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/22/2026