Six European Leaders Condemn Israeli Settlement Plan in West Bank
Cgtn · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Leaders of six European nations on Thursday condemned the Israeli government's decision to publish construction tenders for the E1 settlement project in the West Bank, calling on Israel to immediately retract the plans. In a joint statement released by the Elysee Palace, leaders of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Britain described the move as "unacceptable," warning that it will sever the West Bank, harm the territorial contiguity of the Palestinian Territories, and undermine the prospects of a two-state solution.
Key Points
- Six European nations—France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, and Britain—issued a joint statement through the Elysee Palace on Thursday condemning Israel's E1 settlement plan
- Israel on Tuesday published a tender for 1,234 housing units in E1, part of a wider plan for 3,401 units in the area east of Jerusalem
- European leaders reaffirmed that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law and UN Security Council resolutions
- The leaders warned businesses against participating in construction tenders, citing potential legal and reputational consequences
- The statement noted the decision came amid severe instability with unprecedented violence against civilians and heavy restrictions on the Palestinian economy
Why It Matters
The condemnation by six major European powers signals growing international pressure on Israel over settlement expansion, with the leaders warning that the plans will move the region further from peace and damage Israel's international standing. The joint stance may complicate Israel's diplomatic relations and increase scrutiny of businesses involved in settlement activities.
The condemnation by six major European powers signals growing international pressure on Israel over settlement expansion, with the leaders warning that the plans will move the region further from peace and damage Israel's international standing. The joint stance may complicate Israel's diplomatic relations and increase scrutiny of businesses involved in settlement activities.