Israel Re-establishes West Bank Settlement After 18 Years

Thirty Israeli families have established residence in the West Bank settlement of Homesh, a site evacuated by Israel 18 years ago. The move follows changes to Israeli law earlier this year, which allowed for the return of Israelis to four northern West Bank settlements previously dismantled.

Homesh, located in the northern West Bank, became the first of these four settlements to be permanently re-inhabited. The Israeli government facilitated the return of these families. Homesh was among four settlements removed as part of the 2005 disengagement plan, which saw Israel withdraw from the Gaza Strip and four northern West Bank outposts.

International bodies and several nations have condemned the re-establishment of Homesh. Palestinian residents in surrounding communities have expressed concerns regarding the renewed Israeli presence.