European powers demand Israel halt settler violence in West Bank

Four major European powers have issued a strong collective condemnation of escalating Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank, demanding immediate action to protect Palestinian civilians and ensure accountability under international law. The joint statement from France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom comes amid the worst wave of settler attacks in nearly two decades.

Unprecedented Surge in Violence

The four nations, known collectively as the E4, expressed being "deeply alarmed" by the dramatic increase in attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities. Citing United Nations documentation, the ministers noted that October witnessed 264 separate settler attacks - the highest monthly figure recorded since systematic monitoring began in 2006. The European governments warned that this escalating violence threatens to destabilize the West Bank and potentially trigger broader regional tensions.

International Law Obligations

In their strongly worded statement, the European powers called on Israel to "abide by its obligations under international law and protect the Palestinian population of the occupied territories." The ministers specifically urged Israeli authorities to "hold those accountable who are responsible for those crimes and to prevent further violence by addressing the root causes of this behaviour." They emphasized that the ongoing attacks must cease immediately, noting they "sow terror among civilians, undermine ongoing peace efforts and ultimately harm the lasting security of the State of Israel itself."

Political Principles and Two-State Solution

Reaffirming their longstanding diplomatic positions, the four governments reiterated opposition to "any form of annexation – whether partial, total or de facto – and settlement policies violating international law." The statement also renewed commitment to a negotiated two-state solution where Israel and Palestine would exist as neighboring states "living side by side in peace and security and mutual recognition." The collective European intervention represents significant international pressure on Israel regarding its West Bank policies amid the worsening security situation for Palestinian residents.