Britain, France, and 19 other countries have issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s approval of a major new settlement project (E1) in the occupied West Bank, calling it a violation of international law that threatens the viability of a future Palestinian state.
Key Details:
✔ Settlement Plan:
- 3,400 homes on 12 km² of land east of Jerusalem
- Located in ultra-sensitive E1 corridor between Jerusalem and Maale Adumim
✔ International Response: - 21 nations + EU demand immediate reversal
- UK summons Israeli ambassador in protest
- UN chief Antonio Guterres joins criticism
✔ Israeli Stance: - Finance Minister Smotrich defends project
- Claims it strengthens Israeli sovereignty
Why This Matters
• Two-State Threat: E1 project would divide a future Palestine geographically
• Legal Precedent: All West Bank settlements considered illegal under international law
• Diplomatic Fallout: Worsens Israel’s relations with European allies
Who Signed the Statement?
→ European Powers: UK, France, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Nordic states
→ Global Partners: Australia, Canada, Japan
→ EU Representative: Foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell
What Next?
→ Israeli Response: Will Netanyahu retract or proceed despite pressure?
→ UN Action: Potential Security Council debate
→ Palestinian Reaction: PA may seek ICC intervention
