Jerusalem Governorate Spokesperson Accuses Israel of Seeking to Annex 55% of West Bank Land

A spokesperson for the Jerusalem Governorate has accused Israel of seeking to annex more than half of the occupied West Bank through new land registration measures, describing the move as a “dangerous shift” in control over Palestinian territory.

Marouf Al-Rifai said the approval of land registration procedures in the West Bank comes within the context of what he described as Israel’s renewed push to implement an annexation plan long advocated by far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. He noted that annexation had been a key condition for their participation in the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In televised remarks, Al-Rifai warned that the decision could result in the effective seizure of more than 55 percent of West Bank land. He said it would eliminate the territorial classifications agreed upon under the Oslo Accords—known as Areas A, B and C—and would formalize settlement outposts, particularly in Area C, by granting them official recognition and registration.

He further alleged that the measure would remove confidentiality protections surrounding Palestinian land records and property deeds, potentially enabling land transfers to settlers without the knowledge of the Palestinian National Authority.

Al-Rifai described the move as part of a broader annexation process targeting what he called the remaining unpopulated areas of the West Bank, warning that it represents a significant escalation in efforts to consolidate Israeli control over the territory.

There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials on the allegations.