Israeli Funds Boost Unauthorized Jewish Farms Amid Controversy

The Israeli government has allocated millions to support unauthorized Jewish farms in the West Bank, as revealed by anti-settlement group Peace Now. These outposts, distinct from officially recognized settlements, often receive support and have been linked to violence. The funds have been used for security equipment, sparking international criticism.

The Israeli government has discreetly allocated millions of dollars to protect small, unauthorized Jewish farms in the occupied West Bank, according to Peace Now, an anti-settlement monitoring group.

Documents reveal how funds have been channeled into these outposts, which are separate from recognized settlements, and linked to violence against Palestinians. The Ministry of Settlements and National Mission, led by a far-right settler leader, confirmed it budgeted 75 million Shekels last year for security equipment for these farms.

This development coincides with rising settler violence, international condemnation, and recent sanctions imposed by the US, Britain, and the EU on several hard-line settlers. Peace Now learned of the funding from a pro-settler conference attended by key government figures.

(With inputs from agencies.)