EU condemns Israeli West Bank measures as unlawful, warns of risks

The European Union has issued a strong condemnation of Israel's recent unilateral measures to expand its control over the occupied West Bank, declaring the actions "counterproductive and incompatible with international law." A joint statement from EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Commissioners Dubravka Suica and Hadja Lahbib warned the steps risk derailing international diplomatic efforts for regional stability.

Concerns Over Hebron Protocol and Religious Sites

The bloc expressed specific alarm that decisions affecting the implementation of the Hebron Protocol between Israel and the Palestinian Authority could endanger the sensitive status quo at religious sites in the occupied territory. This concern highlights the potential for the new measures to ignite further tensions beyond their immediate legal and political implications.

Reaffirmation of Long-Standing EU Position

Reiterating its consistent policy, the EU stated it does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over territories occupied since June 1967, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions. The statement firmly backed a two-state solution, envisioning "an independent, democratic, contiguous, and viable Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel in peace and security."

Call to Halt Unilateral Actions

The EU urged all parties to refrain from unilateral measures that escalate tensions and diminish prospects for a negotiated settlement. It pledged to continue working with international partners to advance the two-state framework. The condemnation aligns with growing international criticism of the Israeli Security Cabinet's recent decisions regarding land sales, building permits, and administrative authority in the West Bank.