Western Nations Demand Israel Halt Settlement Expansion, Curb Violence in West Bank
International Response to Israeli Policies in the West Bank
Joint Statement from Western Nations
ROME, May 22 (Reuters) - Israel must halt the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and curb growing settler violence, seven major Western nations said on Friday, accusing the Israeli government of aggravating tensions in the West Bank.
"Over the past few months, the situation in the West Bank has deteriorated significantly," Britain, Italy, France, Germany, Canada, Australia and New Zealand said in a joint statement.
"Settler violence is at unprecedented levels. The policies and practices of the Israeli government, including a further entrenchment of Israeli control, are undermining stability and prospects for a two-state solution."
Israeli Government Reaction
The Israeli government did not immediately comment on the statement.
Concerns Over Settlement Expansion
The statement underscores growing anger in many Western countries over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, which has expanded settlements in the occupied West Bank in a move that diplomats say is aimed at burying the idea of a Palestinian state.
Calls for Accountability and Investigations
It called on Netanyahu's coalition to hold settlers to account for violence against Palestinian residents and investigate allegations of abuse by Israeli forces.
Jerusalem and Palestinian Economy
The seven nations said historic status quo arrangements governing the holy sites in Jerusalem had to be upheld and financial restrictions on the Palestinian economy lifted.
Opposition to E1 Settlement Project
International Law and Settlement Construction
They also called on Israel to halt its controversial E1 settlement project that would slice through land which the Palestinians seek for a state, saying construction there would "mark a serious breach of international law".
Warnings to Companies
They warned companies not to bid for construction tenders in E1 or any other settlement developments.
"They should be aware of legal and reputational consequences of participating in settlement construction including the risk of involving themselves in serious breaches of international law," the statement said.
(Reporting by Crispian Balmer, editing by Gavin Jones and Chiara Rodriquez)
