WEB DESK: A broad coalition of Islamic, Arab and European countries has strongly condemned what they described as Israel’s unlawful measures in the occupied West Bank.
The joint declaration was issued by the foreign ministers of several countries, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, France, Spain, Qatar and Türkiye, along with representatives of the League of Arab States and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
In their statement, the ministers denounced recent Israeli decisions that they said expand control over land in the West Bank. They pointed to measures such as reclassifying Palestinian territory as Israeli “state land,” accelerating settlement construction, and strengthening Israeli administrative authority in occupied areas.
The signatories described Israeli settlements as illegal under international law and said the latest steps violate United Nations Security Council resolutions as well as the 2024 advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice. They warned that these actions appear aimed at altering realities on the ground and advancing what they called de facto annexation.
According to the statement, the expansion of settlements including the approval and tendering of the controversial E1 project threatens the viability of a future Palestinian state and undermines efforts to achieve a two-state solution. The ministers rejected any attempts to change the demographic composition or legal status of territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.
They also urged Israel to halt settler violence against Palestinians and to ensure accountability for those responsible. Emphasizing the recent escalation in the West Bank, the ministers pledged to consider practical steps, consistent with international law, to counter settlement growth and policies involving forced displacement or annexation.
Referring to the holy month of Ramadan, the statement stressed the need to preserve the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its holy sites, acknowledging Jordan’s longstanding custodial role. The ministers condemned repeated violations of that status quo, warning that such actions risk further destabilizing the region.
Additionally, the group called on Israel to release withheld Palestinian tax revenues in line with the Paris Protocol, saying the funds are essential for delivering basic services in both Gaza and the West Bank.
Reaffirming support for a comprehensive peace settlement, the ministers reiterated their commitment to a two-state solution based on the 4 June 1967 borders, consistent with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant UN resolutions. They concluded that only the establishment of an independent, sovereign and democratic Palestinian state can ensure lasting regional peace and coexistence.
