Israel re-establishes closed West Bank settlement, defying growing international protests

In a move defying international protests, Israel has re-established the closed West Bank settlement of Kadim, located near the Palestinian city of Jenin. This decision comes after a wave of nationalist sentiment driven by Israel's current government. The settlement, which had been evacuated 21 years ago, now welcomes a new generation of Jewish pioneers.

The families are arriving in the settlement, located on a hillside outside Jenin, in small groups, some escorted by the military, and bearing blue and white Israeli flags. The return of Kadim marks the last of the settlements evacuated in 2005 to reopen. Since taking office in late 2022, Israel has approved over 100 new settlements in the West Bank, including 19 in the northern region.

The rapid construction in Jenin is part of a broader campaign by the Israeli government to expand settlements before the scheduled October elections. Palestinians in the area are reacting with fear, as the return of Kadim brings a renewed sense of displacement and insecurity.