ISTANBUL 

Israel’s recognition of 13 settlements in the occupied West Bank as "independent units" threatens the viability of the two-state solution, European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said on Thursday.

During a daily press briefing in Brussels, El Anouni was asked about Israel's recent decision to recognize 13 settlements, which were seized by Israeli forces in the West Bank, as "independent units."

El Anouni highlighted that the EU is closely monitoring the growing displacement of Palestinians and the demolition of their homes in the region.

He emphasized that Israel’s actions undermine the two-state solution, adding that "the expansion of settlements harms this process."

He further criticized the Israeli Security Cabinet's move as "a step in the wrong direction," reaffirming the EU's position that the only path to sustainable peace is through a two-state solution.

"The EU strongly opposes Israel’s settlement policy and the decisions made in this regard," El Anouni said.

He also pointed out that Israel’s settlement expansion is in violation of relevant UN resolutions.

On March 23, Israel's Security Cabinet approved the recognition of 13 settlements, seized by Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank, as independent units.