The European Union has reiterated its call for Israel to halt its plans for expansion of settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, warning that any new changes to the pre-1967 borders that are not agreed upon by the parties will be rejected by the bloc.

“Settlements are illegal under international law and constitute a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-state solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace between the parties,” read a statement by the office of EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.

The statement affirmed that the union will not recognize any changes to the pre-1967 borders, including those pertaining to Jerusalem, that are not agreed upon by the parties.

The EU urged the Israeli government to revoke the recent steps, which are totally incompatible with ongoing efforts to reduce tensions, and instead focus on furthering meaningful re-engagement between the parties.

“The EU will continue to play its part supporting steps towards sustainable peace between Israelis and Palestinians,” it added.

Under international law, the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is regarded as occupied territory, making all Jewish settlements there illegal.

Source : Safa