Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has unilaterally transferred control of the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, a site revered by Jews, Muslims, and Christians, from Palestinian authorities to an Israeli committee. The move strips the Hebron municipality of its authority over planning and construction related to the holy site. Smotrich announced the decision Tuesday, asserting direct Israeli oversight. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the action as a violation of international law and existing agreements between Israel and the Palestinians. The Cave of the Patriarchs, believed to be the burial place of Abraham, is a frequent flashpoint for tensions in the region. Both Hebron’s municipality and Abbas’s office have strongly denounced Smotrich’s decision, raising concerns about escalating conflict.