Israel approves plans for 3,400 new settler homes

Israel has approved plans for the construction of 3,400 new settler homes in the occupied West Bank, a move that has been condemned by the international community.

The decision, announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has been met with strong criticism from Palestinian officials and the United Nations, who have called the move a violation of international law.

The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank has long been a point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Palestinian leaders arguing that the settlements are a major obstacle to peace.

The approval of the new settler homes is likely to further strain relations between Israel and the Palestinians, and could complicate efforts to restart peace talks in the region.

Despite the criticism, the Israeli government has defended its decision, arguing that the new homes are necessary to accommodate the growing population of Israeli settlers in the West Bank.