State Department issues condemnation over the weekend after Jerusalem announces it'll green-light 4,500 settlement units, hand Smotrich more control over settlement policy

After far-right minister Smotrich is given full control over West Bank settlement planning, Jordan condemns 'flagrant violation of international law,' as settlers hail step

Cabinet decision with immediate effect also dramatically expedites approval process for construction at settlements, scraps requirement for okay from defense minister or cabinet

Vote comes days after Blinken said administration already planning to create position, demonstrating determination in Congress to leave footprint on Israel normalization effort

Over 1,000 housing units in Givat Ze'ev, Elkana, other areas up for final approval; plans for over 3,000 more to be advanced, says public broadcaster

Move likely comes to mollify Netanyahu's hardline coalition partners a week after US pressured Jerusalem to delay controversial E1 settlement project

Israel notifies Biden administration of decision after PM holds call with Blinken to discuss Saudi normalization

Left-wing Peace Now group says move part of an attempt by 'current government working to create conditions for annexation of the West Bank'

Top US diplomat Blinken tells AIPAC that integrating Israel in region a 'cornerstone' of White House Mideast policy, pans Israel for steps undermining Palestinians dignity

Construction of new building in outpost was ‘deliberate dismantlement of rule of law,’ caused 'constitutional crisis' as ministers allegedly approved structure, says Yesh Din