Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories has cost the economy of the Palestinians more than $2.5 billion a year for the past two decades, a UN report said Monday.

Israeli occupation costs Palestinian economy $2.5 bn a year: UN

The Vatican spoke out on Wednesday against the United States' decision to no longer consider Israeli settlements illegal, joining stiff international criticism of the policy reversal.

Vatican criticises US policy shift on Israeli settlements

The controversial law has split the country, with some calling it a victory while detractors dubbing it as 'despicable'

Israel approves settler outposts on Palestinian land

Israel's High Court ruled the settlers had been living illegally on privately-owned Palestinian land.

Israel announces 3,000 new homes in West bank, evicts Jewish settlers from illegal outpost