Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Former EU Officials Urge Action Over West Bank Settlement Plan


(MENAFN) More than 400 former European Union ministers, ambassadors, and senior officials have urged EU institutions and member states to take stronger action to discourage the expansion of an Israeli settlement project in the occupied West Bank, according to a letter cited by a media outlet.

The signatories are calling for targeted sanctions against individuals and entities involved in settlement-related activities, including political figures, settler leaders, and various Israeli administrative bodies. The proposed measures would also extend to professionals and institutions engaged in planning, construction, financing, and legal support connected to settlement expansion.

The letter recommends restrictions such as visa bans and limits on business operations within the European Union as part of efforts to deter further development of the controversial project.

The initiative specifically references the E1 settlement plan, which has long drawn international criticism over concerns that it could fragment territorial continuity and undermine the viability of a future Palestinian state.

The call comes amid ongoing tensions in the region. According to the Palestinian Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, Israeli authorities carried out 37 demolition operations in the occupied West Bank during April alone, impacting 78 Palestinian structures, including residential homes, agricultural facilities, and livelihoods.

The renewed appeal from former EU officials highlights growing pressure within parts of Europe for more concrete policy responses regarding settlement expansion and its impact on the broader conflict.

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