EU calls on Israel to reverse decision on settlement expansion

BRUSSELS, July 29 (KUNA) -- The EU Wednesday slammed the recent decisions of the Israeli authorities to further advance settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The move questions the "Israeli government's stated commitment to a negotiated two-state solution in the Middle East Peace Process," said Maja Kocijancic, spokesperson for EU High Representative Fedrica Mogherini, in a statement here tonight.
The statement noted that the Israeli governmental plans to consider the approval of unauthorized outposts across the West Bank "would further undermine the practical possibility of implementing the two-state solution.
It said that the EU expects the Israeli government to demonstrate its commitment to the two-state solution not only in words, but also through its actions.
Recalling that all settlements are illegal under international law, the EU reiterated its strong commitment to ensure compliance with international law as a cornerstone of peace and security.
The EU "strongly opposes Israel's settlement policy and actions taken in this context, such as building the separation barrier beyond the 1967 line, demolitions and confiscations - including of EU funded projects- evictions, forced transfers including of Bedouins, illegal outposts, settler violence and restrictions of movement and access," it stressed.
The EU urged the government of Israel to urgently reverse recent decisions and put an end to settlement expansion. (end) nk.ibi