BRUSSELS, November 9, 2016 (WAFA) – The European Union (EU) criticized on Wednesday an Israeli plan to expand the settlement of Gilo, to the south of Jerusalem, warning that this would cut East Jerusalem from the West Bank therefore compromising the two-state solution.
“The approval by the Israeli authorities of the construction permits for 181 housing units in the illegal settlement of Gilo contributes to closing the southern settlement ring around East Jerusalem, thereby compromising contiguity between East Jerusalem and the West Bank, which is crucial for the viability of the two-state solution,” said the EU spokesperson in a statement.
“We regret that Israel has proceeded with these building permits despite continuous serious international concern and objections ever since these plans were first announced,” added the spokesperson.
The EU reiterated its official position that “settlements are illegal under international law, constitute an obstacle to peace and seriously call into question Israel‘s commitment to a negotiated two-state solution.”
M.A.
