EU 'deeply regrets' Israel's new settlement plan

BRUSSELS

EU is strongly opposed to the Israeli government’s recent announcement to build 3,000 new settlements in the West Bank, the bloc’s foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said on Wednesday.

In a written statement, Mogherini said the EU "deeply regrets that Israel is proceeding with this, despite the continuous serious international concern and objections, which have been constantly raised at all levels.

"The announcement marks a very worrying trend, posing a direct challenge to the prospects of a viable two-state solution, which is increasingly difficult and risks becoming impossible."

On Feb. 1, Israeli government approved plans for 3,000 new West Bank settlement homes, following the announcement on Jan. 24 of the construction of 2,500 units and the approval of building permits for 566 settlement units in East Jerusalem on Jan. 22.

According to the statement, the continued settlement expansion, illegal under international law as reaffirmed by UN Security Council Resolution 2334, goes directly against long-standing EU policy and the recommendations of the Quartet Report.

"A negotiated two-state solution is the only way to fulfill the legitimate aspirations of both parties and to achieve enduring peace," she added.

Reporting by Ata Ufuk Seker; Writing by Burcu Arik

BRUSSELS

EU is strongly opposed to the Israeli government’s recent announcement to build 3,000 new settlements in the West Bank, the bloc’s foreign policy chief, Federica Mogherini, said on Wednesday.

"The announcement marks a very worrying trend, posing a direct challenge to the prospects of a viable two-state solution, which is increasingly difficult and risks becoming impossible."

"A negotiated two-state solution is the only way to fulfill the legitimate aspirations of both parties and to achieve enduring peace," she added.

Reporting by Ata Ufuk Seker; Writing by Burcu Arik