"We recall that such unilateral actions, as part of a wider intensification of the settlement policies in the West Bank, not only violate international law but also risk fuelling instability," the statement reads. "They risk undermining the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan for Gaza amid efforts to progress to phase 2 and harming prospects for long term peace and security across the region."
"We recall our clear opposition to any form of annexation and to the expansion of settlement policies, including the approval of the E1 settlement and thousands of new housing units. We call on Israel to reverse this decision, as well as the expansion of settlements, in line with UNSC Resolution 2334. We are resolute in our support of Palestinians' right of self-determination."
Israel's security cabinet approved establishment of 19 new settlements in the West Bank. Government ministers said the settlements form part of efforts to block the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are considered violations of international law. The move was proposed by far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and defence minister Israel Katz. A joint statement condemning the new settlements was signed by multiple countries including Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and the UK. The signatories called for reversal and reaffirmed support for a negotiated two-state solution.
Read at Irish Independent
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