Intensifying settlements in Palestinian lands

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Jewish settlement activities in the West Bank have been intensified in light of his government, which assumed power in June 1996.

He said his government intends to expand these settlements.

Washington directed criticism to Israel for building new settlements in the West Bank and expanding some of the existing settlements.

Meanwhile, Israeli settlers occupied with weapons one hill of Hebron city in the West Bank on which they set up tents, and the Israeli army was there to protect the colonizers.

Palestinian reporters said who tried to reach the place said the colonizers released their dogs toward them to keep them away from the area.

A Palestinian source said this hill is the 18th occupied by Israeli settlers since the Wye Plantation accord was ratified in October 1998.