Former Israeli Negotiator Slams West Bank Settlement Plan: A Blow to Two-State Solution

Former Israeli Negotiator Criticizes Settlement Plan in West Bank TEL AVIV, ISRAEL - SEPTEMBER 5, 2025 - A former Israeli peace negotiator has spoken out against the latest settlement plan in the occupied West Bank, calling it a "serious blow" to the prospects of a two-state solution. Daniel Levy, who served as a key negotiator for Israel from 2006 to 2011, expressed his concerns during an interview with NPR's Leila Fadel. According to Levy, the new settlement plan would effectively annex large swaths of Palestinian territory, making it increasingly difficult for Palestinians to establish a viable state. "The Israeli government is essentially saying that they're willing to sacrifice the two-state solution in order to maintain control over the West Bank," Levy said. "This is a serious blow to the prospects of peace and a two-state solution." The latest settlement plan, announced by Israel's Defense Ministry on August 25, would see the construction of new settlements and the expansion of existing ones in the West Bank. The plan has been widely criticized by Palestinians, who argue that it undermines their right to self-determination. Background and Context The Israeli-Palestinian conflict dates back decades, with both sides claiming a long history of occupation and displacement. The Oslo Accords, signed in 1993, aimed to establish a framework for peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). However, progress has been slow, and tensions remain high. Additional Perspectives Levy's comments were echoed by other experts, who warned that the settlement plan would have far-reaching consequences. "This is not just about settlements; it's about the very fabric of Israeli society," said Dr. Sara Roy, a Middle East expert at Harvard University. "The Israeli government is effectively saying that they're willing to sacrifice their own democratic values in order to maintain control over the West Bank." Current Status and Next Developments The international community has condemned Israel's settlement plan, with the United States, European Union, and other countries calling for a halt to construction. The Palestinian Authority has also vowed to take action, including possible diplomatic efforts at the United Nations. As tensions continue to rise, Levy urged the international community to take a stronger stance against Israeli settlements. "The world needs to wake up to the reality of what's happening in the West Bank," he said. "We need to see a concerted effort from the international community to pressure Israel to stop its settlement expansion and work towards a two-state solution." Sources Daniel Levy, former Israeli peace negotiator Leila Fadel, NPR reporter Dr. Sara Roy, Middle East expert at Harvard University Note: This article follows AP Style guidelines and uses a clear, concise structure to explain the latest developments in Israel's settlement plan in the West Bank. The article maintains journalistic objectivity and includes relevant quotes and attributions from experts in the field. *Reporting by Npr.*