US deeply concerned over Israeli plans to expand settlements

WASHINGTON, Oct 1 (KUNA) -- The US indicated Wednesday its deep concern over reports that the Israeli government has moved forward in planning the expansion of settlements to "sensitive" areas in Givat Hamatos and East Jerusalem.
"This step is contrary to Israel's stated goal of negotiating a permanent status agreement with the Palestinians, and it would send a very troubling message if they were to proceed with tenders or construction in that area," said White House Spokesperson Josh Earnest to reporters hours after President Obama met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.
State Department Spokesperson Jen Psaki echoed that this development will, "distance Israel from even its closest allies, poison the atmosphere not only with the Palestinians but also with the very Arab governments with which Prime Minister Netanyahu said he wanted to build relations." She added that this expansion will, "call into question Israel's ultimate commitment to a peaceful negotiated settlement with the Palestinians." Earnest also condemned the recent occupation of a residential buildings in Silwan in East Jerusalem, "by individuals who are associated with an organization whose agenda by definition stokes tensions between Israelis and Palestinians." The US indicated that it has seen reports of a "Palestinian request" but has not "had the opportunity to study it," affirmed Psaki. "I can say, however, that we strongly believe that the preferred course of action is for the parties to reach an agreement on final status issues directly". (end) ak.hb