Israel's finance minister has announced plans for a new settlement in the occupied West Bank, a move that rights groups and Palestinians say could divide the territory and undermine prospects for a future Palestinian state. The proposed development, known as E1, would expand the Maale Adumim settlement with around 3,500 new apartments and has been under consideration for over two decades. The plan has not yet received final approval, but could move forward quickly, with infrastructure work potentially beginning within months. Rights organizations have condemned the announcement, warning it threatens hopes for a peaceful two-state solution and could lead to further conflict. The announcement comes as several countries prepare to recognize a Palestinian state and amid heightened tensions following statements from Israeli leaders about expanding control over the region.