(Ilana Messika/TPS) In a move intended to build confidence with Palestinians ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to Israel and against the backdrop of U.S. efforts to advance negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, the security cabinet approved an economic benefits package for Palestinians on Sunday evening.

The relief measures include the extension the hours of operation of the Allenby border crossing, the expansion of the Sha’ar Ephraim crossing (Tulkarm), the examination of the possibility of connecting the Jezreel Valley railway and Jenin, and the establishment of industrial zones for Palestinians in Jamala and Tarqumiyah, near Hebron.

In addition, the security cabinet decided to establish a committee for a period of three years to promote the regulation of buildings and outposts in Judea and Samaria. The team will include members of the Prime Minister’s Office, Defense Ministry and the Civil Administration.

One of the most controversial measures allows for Palestinian construction on lands adjacent to Palestinian cities in Area C on approximately 17,000 dunams of land, though Israel will remain the authority that decides how the land will be used (whether for agricultural, residential or industrial purposes).