The European Union issued on Tuesday a statement expressing its strong opposition to Israel's settlement policy and actions taken in this context.

"The continuation of this policy violates international law, undermines the viability of the two-state solution and the prospect for a lasting peace in the region, and seriously jeopardizes the possibility of Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both States," said the statement.

The statement stated that the EU missions in Jerusalem and Ramallah note with concern that Israeli authorities have continued to carry out demolitions of Palestinian structures in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, in 2020.

Moreover, it mentioned that as of 31 August, a total number of 107 residential units and 46 other units (shops, storerooms etc.) were demolished in 2020 in East Jerusalem alone.

"The EU missions note with concern that demolitions have continued since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early March notwithstanding the various obligations of the occupying power under international humanitarian law," the statement added.

It stressed the EU’s long-standing position on Israel’s settlement policy, illegal under international law, and actions taken in that context, such as forced transfers, evictions, demolitions and confiscations of homes,

The EU urges the Israeli authorities to halt demolitions of Palestinian structures and welcomes the decisions of the High Court of Justice annulling demolition orders in Jenin and Hebron district.

Source : Safa