Canada, Six European Countries Urge Israel to Halt West Bank Settlement Expansion

France, Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada and Norway have called on Israel to immediately withdraw plans for the E1 settlement project and halt further settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank.

Countries Reject E1 Construction Plans

In a joint statement issued on Thursday, the seven countries described Israel's decision to issue construction tenders for the E1 project as unacceptable.

They warned that the development could have serious implications for the future of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Warning Over Two-State Solution

The countries said the E1 project could split the West Bank and undermine the territorial contiguity of Palestinian territories.

According to the statement, such developments would further weaken the prospects for a viable two-state solution, which the seven governments continue to support.

Settlements Deemed Illegal Under International Law

The seven countries reiterated their position that Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law.

They also noted that this position has been reaffirmed by the UN Security Council.

The governments urged Israel to abandon the E1 plans and stop settlement expansion, warning that continued measures of this kind would push the region further away from peace.

Companies Warned Against Bidding

The countries also called on companies not to participate in construction tenders related to the E1 project.

They warned businesses that involvement in the project could potentially expose them to legal and reputational consequences.

Renewed Commitment to Two-State Solution

France, Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada and Norway reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the region.

The countries said such a settlement should be based on a two-state solution, with efforts focused on preserving the conditions needed to achieve lasting peace.