Meaning: The quote you provided touches on the complex and often contentious issue of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and their impact on both American and Israeli interests. The speaker, Chris Matthews, a prominent journalist and political commentator, suggests that the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank is not in the best interests of either the United States or Israel, but rather serves the interests of a particular political party that gains support from the settlers in that region.

To delve into this quote, it's crucial to understand the context of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The West Bank, a territory that has been at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, was captured by Israel during the Six-Day War in 1967. Following the war, Israel began establishing settlements in the West Bank, which are considered illegal under international law, a stance supported by the United Nations and many countries, including the United States.

The issue of Israeli settlements has been a significant point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Palestinians viewing them as a major obstacle to the establishment of a future Palestinian state. Moreover, the expansion of settlements has often been a source of tension in Israeli-American relations and a sticking point in peace negotiations.

Chris Matthews' assertion that the expansion of settlements does not serve American interests speaks to the broader U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. The United States has historically supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, viewing it as the most viable path to a lasting peace. The expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank complicates and undermines this goal, as it encroaches on the territory that would potentially comprise a future Palestinian state. From an American perspective, the expansion of settlements hampers efforts to achieve a negotiated resolution to the conflict, thus conflicting with the U.S. interest in promoting stability and peace in the region.

In terms of Israeli interests, Matthews suggests that the expansion of settlements may not necessarily be aligned with the broader goals of the Israeli government or its citizens. While some Israeli political parties and their constituents support the expansion of settlements as a means of asserting Israeli control over the West Bank, there are also voices within Israel that oppose such expansion. Critics argue that the settlements not only complicate the prospects for a two-state solution but also strain Israel's relations with the international community, particularly with key allies such as the United States.

Moreover, the quote highlights the influence of domestic politics on the issue of settlements. By referencing the "political party that's getting the votes of the settlers on the West Bank," Matthews alludes to the role of internal Israeli politics in shaping the country's policies regarding the settlements. The support of settlers in the West Bank, who tend to favor expansion, can hold significant sway over certain political parties, influencing their approach to the issue. This dynamic underscores the intricate interplay between domestic politics, ideology, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In conclusion, the quote by Chris Matthews captures the multi-faceted nature of the Israeli settlements in the West Bank and their implications for both American and Israeli interests. It underscores the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the challenges it poses to U.S. foreign policy, and the internal dynamics within Israel that shape the approach to the settlements. As the debate over settlements continues to be a crucial aspect of the broader quest for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, understanding the various perspectives and interests involved is essential for grasping the intricacies of this enduring and deeply complex issue.