EU urges Israel to reverse decisions on settlement expansion

The European Union here on Wednesday urged the government of Israel to urgently reverse recent decisions and put an end to settlement expansion.

"The recent decisions of the Israeli authorities to further advance settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem call into question the Israeli government's stated commitment to a negotiated two-state solution in the Middle East Peace Process," said a statement by an European External Action Service spokesperson.

The statement added that the governmental plans of Israel to consider the approval of unauthorized outposts across the West Bank would further undermine the practical possibility of implementing the two-state solution.

"The EU expects the Israeli government to demonstrate its commitment to the two-state solution not only in words, but also through its actions," it said.

"Recalling that all settlements are illegal under international law, the European Union reiterates its strong commitment to ensure compliance with international law as a cornerstone of peace and security," said the statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved earlier Wednesday hundreds of new housing units in West Bank settlements. Enditem