Israel Minister Calls West Bank Measures 'De Facto Sovereignty'

Israeli official says new policies deepen control over occupied West Bank.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A senior Israeli official stated on Tuesday that measures taken by the government, which deepen Israel's control over the occupied West Bank, amount to an act of 'de facto sovereignty' over the territory.

Why it matters

The comments highlight the ongoing tensions and power dynamics between Israel and the Palestinians in the West Bank, as Israel continues to expand its presence and control in the occupied territory despite international criticism.

The details

The Israeli official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the new policies approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government are intended to further cement Israel's hold on West Bank lands the Palestinians seek for a future state. The measures include legalizing unauthorized settlement outposts and establishing a new settlement.

  • The comments were made on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Benjamin Netanyahu

The Prime Minister of Israel who approved the new policies deepening Israel's control over the West Bank.

Palestinian Authority

The governing body of the Palestinian territories, which seeks the West Bank lands for a future independent state.

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What they’re saying

“The measures adopted by the government amount to an act of 'de facto sovereignty' over the territory.”

— Anonymous, Senior Israeli Official

The takeaway

Israel's continued expansion of control over the occupied West Bank raises concerns about the prospects for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as the Palestinian Authority's ability to establish an independent state on those lands becomes increasingly difficult.