Israel to Build More Settlements

Israeli military spokesman Guy Inbar said Thursday that plans are moving ahead to build 1,000 new homes for settlers in Itamar and Bruchin, both in the West Bank. The plans still await official endorsement, though activists say construction could begin within a year. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been open to approving new settlements, including 3,000 housing units in East Jerusalem in December. The units, built illegally on occupied territory, are at the center of Israel’s conflict with the Palestinians, and U.S. officials have strongly denounced them. “These activities set back the cause of a negotiated peace,” Hillary Clinton said of new settlements last year.