Measures to differentiate between Israel and settlement-linked entities offer a way of insulating deepening bilateral relations from the settlements. Differentiation protects the EU and its member states from the harmful effects of Israel’s internationally unlawful acts of annexation, the structural violations that ensue from Israel’s prolonged occupation, and liabilities that such acts attract under international and domestic laws.

After over a decade of legal wrangling, the Israeli government seeks another seven-month extension to December evacuation order.

“Bringing an end to 50 years of military rule over the Palestinians will undoubtedly change the face of Israeli society as we know it. Let’s welcome that change with open arms,” writes Inna Michaeli.

“Despite continued U.S. objections, Israel continues to flout international law and the commitments it has made to the United States regarding its settlements expansion. Aside from harsh rhetoric, the United States has taken nearly no action against settlements,” writes former U.S. ambassador to Israel Dan Kurtzer.

“Americans will still have a long way to go before they can decide what their country represents. Once they do, Palestinians can begin to care again about what happens in Washington,” writes Samer Badawi.

“I am certain that at the end of the day the [Amona] residents will evacuate responsibly,” Netanyahu said as he spoke of the small hilltop community of 40 families.

“Israel’s failure to publicize a decision that benefits the Palestinians shows just how preoccupied Israel’s right-wing government is about a settler backlash,” writes Shlomi Eldar.

“It is safe to say that the gradual rapprochement between Hamas and Egypt is an Egyptian act of defiance, aimed at pressuring Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas into responding to Egyptian demands that Abbas reconcile with his arch rival [dismissed Fatah leader] Mohammed Dahlan and get him ready to succeed him,” one political analyst said.