The Art of Perpetual 'Temporary' Occupation
THE ACTORS: Who is involved in this story? The key players here are the Israeli government, particularly the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of National Security, headed by Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, respectively. Both are prominent figures in the Religious Zionist party, a far-right faction openly advocating for the annexation of the West Bank. Smotrich, in particular, now wields
significant authority over civilian affairs in the West Bank through his role within the Ministry of Defense. This transfer of power, initiated in February 2023, effectively moves decision-making regarding settlement expansion and Palestinian land from a military commander to a civilian minister known for his extreme views. THE FUNDING: Where does their money come from? While direct funding for
these specific legislative 'streamlining' efforts isn't usually itemized publicly, the broader apparatus supporting West Bank settlement expansion relies on a complex web. Israeli government budgets allocate substantial funds annually to infrastructure, security, and residential construction in settlements—estimates place this at hundreds of millions of dollars each year (Peace Now, 2023). Beyond
state funds, a significant portion comes from charitable organizations, often US-based, which funnel tax-deductible donations to entities directly supporting settlements and land seizure. For example, organizations like the Central Fund of Israel and One Israel Fund have raised tens of millions over the years, directing them to projects in the West Bank (AP investigation, 2015). THE INCENTIVES: