Israel’s security cabinet has approved new measures that expand Israeli control over the occupied West Bank, prompting strong condemnation from Palestinian leaders and regional actors.

Palestinian authorities warned the move could legalize settlement expansion, undermine existing agreements, and effectively block the creation of a future Palestinian state, while Hamas called for increased resistance.

Israeli media reported the rules would allow settlers to buy land more easily, increase Israeli enforcement powers over Palestinians, and expand control over religious sites.

Jordan and other critics said the measures amount to de facto annexation and violate international law governing occupied territories, Al-Jazeera has reported.

The decision comes days before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet US President Donald Trump, heightening diplomatic tensions.