US consular services in illegal Israeli settlement in West Bank condemned
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United States has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian authorities and Hamas over its decision to provide consular services at Efrat settlement in the West Bank, an area considered illegal under international law. The move was condemned as a breach of global norms and a practical endorsement of Israeli settlements, which are widely seen as part of the occupation. The US embassy in Jerusalem announced it would begin offering passport services at Efrat on Friday, with similar plans for other settlements like Beitar Illit. This decision has been slammed by Palestinian officials, who argue that extending consular services to illegal settlements violates international law and reinforces Israeli control over occupied territories.
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) described the decision as a clear violation of international law, emphasizing that it undermines efforts to achieve peace in the region. Hamas called the move a dangerous precedent that contradicts US claims to oppose West Bank annexation while taking steps that entrench Israeli sovereignty. Meanwhile, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the decision, hailing it as a step toward strengthening ties with the United States.
The controversy comes amid ongoing tensions over Israel's expansion in the West Bank. Earlier this week, 19 countries, including France and Saudi Arabia, accused Israel of effectively annexing Palestinian land through its plan to register state-owned properties in Area C. This area, under full Israeli control, constitutes nearly 60% of the West Bank. Critics argue that the US decision to expand consular services aligns with Israel’s settlement policies, further entrenching its presence in occupied territories.
The move also raises questions about the implications for US-Israeli relations and international law. With over 465,000 settlers living in the West Bank, many of whom are dual citizens, the decision has been interpreted as a signal of US support for Israel's policies. As global scrutiny intensifies over Israel's actions in the occupied territories, this development highlights the growing divide between the US and other nations over the Middle East peace process.
In a broader context, this issue underscores the delicate balance of international diplomacy and the challenges of enforcing global norms in conflict zones. The reaction from Palestinian groups and international observers reflects deep concerns about the long-term impact of such moves on peace efforts and regional stability.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026