Britain and France, joined by 19 other nations, issued a strong joint statement on Thursday condemning Israel’s decision to move forward with its long-stalled E1 settlement project in the West Bank. The group of foreign ministers called the plan “unacceptable and a violation of international law,” urging Israel to reverse course immediately. The E1 area, located just east of Jerusalem, has long been considered one of the most sensitive tracts of land because building there would effectively cut the West Bank in two, separating Palestinian communities and limiting access to Jerusalem.

The statement, signed by countries including Australia, Canada, Italy, and much of Europe, warned that the project risks undermining security, fueling violence, and making a two-state solution impossible. UN officials echoed this concern, with UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini saying the development would sever territorial continuity in the West Bank. Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, however, defended the plan, declaring it essential for strengthening Israeli sovereignty. With the project seeking to add around 3,400 homes, global opposition reflects deepening tensions between Israel and Western nations, especially as several have recently announced their intention to formally recognize Palestinian statehood.

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SOURCE: Times of Israel