European Countries Call Israel to End Settlement Expansion in West Bank

European – (Web Desk) – European countries call Israel to end settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, as Italy, France, Britain, and Germany issued a strong joint statement on Friday. The four nations said Israel’s settlement policies are hurting stability and killing hopes for a two-state solution.

The statement put direct pressure on Israel to stop building new settlements and to hold people accountable for violence against Palestinians. The countries also asked Israel to investigate allegations made against its own forces.

Situation Getting Worse

The four governments said the situation in the West Bank has gotten significantly worse in recent months. They described settler violence against Palestinians as reaching levels never seen before.

They also strongly condemned Israel’s E1 settlement plan. This project plans to build around 3,400 homes across 12 square kilometres in the occupied West Bank. The countries called this a serious violation of international law.

They also warned businesses not to take part in settlement construction projects. Companies could face serious legal and reputation damage if they get involved.

Palestinian Authority Welcomes the Statement

The Palestinian Authority called the joint statement an important step in the right direction. However, it also asked for real actions to follow the words. It wants serious pressure placed on Israel to bring about real change on the ground.

Since the Gaza war began in October 2023, violence has also been happening almost every day in the West Bank, which Israel has occupied since 1967.

Tensions Rise Over Flotilla Video

This statement came after a very difficult week between Europe and Israel. A video was shared publicly by Israel’s far-right national security minister, Itamar Ben Gvir. It showed European activists from a Gaza-bound flotilla being forced to kneel with their hands tied while in Israeli custody.

Italy and Spain called on the EU to sanction Ben Gvir. Ireland also pushed the EU to take action. The United Kingdom went further and summoned Israel’s top diplomat in Britain over what it called an inflammatory video.