BRUSSELS, Feb 11 (KUNA) -- EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas said Wednesday new steps approved by the Israeli occupation's security cabinet to amend land registration and property acquisition procedures in the West Bank are unlawful.
In a statement on behalf of the EU, she said the measures are "counterproductive and incompatible with international law," warning they could undermine international efforts to stabilize the situation and advance peace in the region.
The statement underlined the EU's "long-standing position" of non-recognition of Israeli occupation sovereignty over the territories occupied since June 1967, in line with relevant UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions.
Decisions affecting the implementation of the Hebron Protocol between the Israeli occupation and the Palestinian Authority threaten the sensitive status quo of religious sites, it noted.
The EU reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to a lasting and sustainable peace in accordance with UNSC resolutions and on the basis of the two-state solution, ensuring the establishment of an independent, democratic, contiguous, sovereign and viable Palestinian state.
The EU also said it will continue working with international partners, including through the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, and urged all parties to refrain from unilateral measures that raise tensions and further undermine the prospects for a negotiated settlement.
It stressed that this is particularly important at a time when coordinated international efforts are underway to advance peace and stability in the region. (end) arn.lr