Israel Approves 229 New Housing Units in Judea and Samaria, Including Major Expansion of Otniel

Housing Expansion Approved

Israel’s Supreme Planning Council approved plans for 229 new housing units in Judea and Samaria on Wednesday as part of the government’s continued effort to strengthen Israeli communities in the region.

The largest project is in Otniel, located in the Hebron Hills, where final approval was granted for 156 new housing units. According to Israeli officials, the expansion is expected to nearly double the size of the community and make room for hundreds of new residents after years of planning and the resolution of multiple objections.

The council also granted final approval for 52 housing units in Kfar Adumim and 21 additional units in Elkana.

Smotrich: Strengthening Israel's Presence

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich welcomed the decision, calling it another step in strengthening Israeli communities throughout Judea and Samaria.

"We continue to build the Land of Israel and carry out a tremendous revolution in communities throughout our land," Smotrich said, adding that Otniel has stood strong through years of terrorist attacks and now faces significant growth with the arrival of hundreds of new residents.

Smotrich also argued that expanding Israeli communities helps reinforce Israel's security and prevents the establishment of what he described as a terror state in the heart of the country. He thanked the Civil Administration for advancing the planning process.

Security and Strategic Significance

The approvals reflect the Israeli government's ongoing policy of expanding communities in Judea and Samaria, with supporters arguing that continued development strengthens Israel's security, deepens its presence on the ground, and reinforces long-term strategic interests.