Palestinian Village in “E1 Area” on the West Bank of Jordan River
The Deputy Spokesperson of the French Foreign Ministry issued a statement on the 16th, condemning Israel’s plan to build settlements in the “E1 Area” on the West Bank of the Jordan River.
The statement said that France gave its strongest condemnation to this Israeli decision and urged Israel to abandon this plan which violated international law severely. Once implemented, this plan would divide the West Bank region into two parts, thus seriously affecting the implementation of the “two-state solution”, which is the only way to ensure peace and lasting security for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The statement also said that France once again condemned Israel’s construction of settlements in Palestinian territory and the resulting tensions and violent incidents. France would continue to work with its European partners to increase pressure on Israel through new sanctions against relevant personnel and organizations, and urge Israel to end the construction of settlements.
On the 13th, Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich said he planned to approve the construction of 3,401 housing units in the controversial “E1 Area” between East Jerusalem and the Jewish settlement of Maale Adumin on the West Bank of Jordan River, aiming to “bury the idea of a Palestinian state”. According to Israeli media reports, this action will divide the West Bank into north and south sections, and make it impossible for Palestinian areas in East Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Ramallah to be connected.