The Knesset passed a bill that provides tax benefits to Israelis who donate to West Bank settlements.

The bill, an amendment to the Income Tax Act, grants a 35 percent tax break on donations to nongovernmental organizations that encourage settlement anywhere in the country, such as the Negev and the Galilee, and including the West Bank.

Several members of the Kadima party joined the opposition in voting against the bill.

Donors to non-Jewish settlements also receive the tax break. — jta