Samaria is the central highlands of the West Bank, a historic region tied to biblical Samaria and modern West Bank politics.
Multiple reports confirm that Israeli officials have advanced plans to expand settlements in the West Bank, including thousands of new homes and infrastructure. The push is led by far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and could reshape settlement footprint, raising tensions with Palestinians and drawing international condemnation.
The government has announced a new plan diverting hundreds of millions of shekels from Arab community development to fund enforcement, expanding Shin Bet’s role in combating organized crime alongside police. Protests and legal objections arise from rights groups amid criticism of deepened inequality.
UNESCO has placed Sebastia in the West Bank and five Lebanese castles in Mount Amel on both the World Heritage List and the List of World Heritage in Danger after an emergency review. Israel has opposed the move, citing threats to Jewish and Christian heritage and claiming Hezbollah activity at Beaufort Castle. Tyre is also listed as in danger.