Israeli settlers - File photoMaan
Bethlehem – Israeli settlers have announced their intention to build 11 new illegal outposts in the occupied West Bank on Sunday.
In fliers distributed in existing West Bank settlements, an organization calling itself the Land of Israel Faithful urged settlers to establish the new colonies.
The call coincides with the expected arrival of US Middle East Envoy George Mitchell, who is likely to urge Israeli authorities to declare a moratorium on all construction in the settlements. Mitchell will deliver this message in talks with Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak later in the day.....
Israel’s government has refused repeated calls for a settlement freeze, but international demands for a moratorium have only galvanized the settler movement. The settlers have also declared their intention to violently lash out at Palestinian communities whenever an outpost is removed by the government.
In spite of Israel’s reticence, US officials said last week that they have ruled out financial pressure as a means to compel Israel to comply with international law.
Mitchell is the first of four senior US officials who are travelling to Israel this week. Defense Secretary Robert Gates follows on Monday, when he will urge Israel not to attack Iran. National Security Adviser James Jones, and White House Middle East advisor Dennis Ross are also expected in Israel. Full story More info on Israeli settlements
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