Arab League Warns of Israeli Plans to Expand Jewish Communities in Negev and Galilee

Cairo, August 31, 2026: The Arab League has expressed deep concern over announced Israeli plans related to expanding Jewish communities in the Negev and Galilee, warning that the measures could deepen discrimination and have serious social and political consequences. 

The concerns follow remarks and plans attributed to Israel’s Finance Minister concerning the expansion of new Jewish settlements in the two regions, increasing their population, and introducing policies affecting Arab towns as well as planning and land authorities. 

Arab League Warns of Growing Discrimination

Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy said the implications of the plans raised concerns over discrimination based on national identity and belonging.

He warned that such policies could represent a serious escalation of discriminatory tendencies and further entrench approaches based on exclusion rather than equality and the rights of Arab citizens. 

Fahmy also cautioned against institutionalising such approaches and turning them into official public policies, saying this could carry significant societal and political consequences. 

Broader Concerns Over Settlement Expansion

The Arab League linked the latest developments to what it described as broader Israeli policies aimed at establishing new realities on the ground, particularly through settlement expansion.

According to Fahmy, such measures could undermine the foundations of a future Palestinian state, conflict with the rules-based international order and reduce prospects for reaching a fair and lasting political settlement. 

Call for International Action

The Secretary-General called on the international community to assume its responsibilities and work to prevent policies that could further undermine the prospects for peace.

He reiterated the Arab League’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. 

Two-State Solution Reaffirmed

Fahmy stressed that the two-state solution remains the only path toward achieving lasting security, stability and peace in the region. 

The Arab League’s statement comes amid continuing regional and international concern over settlement activity and developments affecting the prospects for a negotiated political settlement.

Source: Qatar News Agency (QNA)