The Israeli parliament has given its initial approval to a bill aimed at legitimizing thousands of settler homes on the West Bank. It could apply to up to three thousand Jewish homes in the occupied territory, but still needs to pass three more parliamentary votes to become law.

The measure has drawn international anger, however, and it's seen as the government's biggest test since the legislative election last year. However, there have been reports that a "behind-the-scenes compromise" could see the bill held up.