US to Offer Passport Services in West Bank Settlement of Efrat

The United States will begin offering in-person passport services at the Israeli settlement of Efrat in the occupied West Bank on February 27, 2026, marking the first time the US has provided consular services within a West Bank settlement . The US Embassy in Jerusalem also plans to offer similar services in the Palestinian city of Ramallah, the settlement of Beitar Illit, and in Israeli cities including Haifa, Jerusalem, Netanya, and Beit Shemesh , , .

Expanding Consular Access for American Citizens

The move aims to improve access to essential consular services for the tens of thousands of American citizens and dual American-Israeli nationals residing in the region . Currently, passport and consular services are offered at the US Embassy in West Jerusalem and a branch office in Tel Aviv.

International Law and Settlement Status

Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law . Israel disputes this, citing historical ties and security concerns. The international community, with the exception of the United States under the Trump administration, maintains this position.

Reactions to the Announcement

Israel’s Foreign Ministry welcomed the decision, stating it would strengthen the relationship between Israel and the US . There was no immediate comment from Palestinian officials .

Previous Consular Services in the West Bank

The US embassy has previously provided consular services in Ramallah and other Palestinian cities in the West Bank .