Buenos Aires, December 25 (NA) — A bloc of 14 nations, led by major European powers and Japan, issued a joint declaration on Wednesday strongly condemning the Israeli government's decision to establish 19 new settlements in the occupied West Bank. The group warned that these unilateral actions constitute a direct violation of international law and threaten regional stability. The statement, issued by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is backed by Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and the United Kingdom. IP Key points of the complaint: Obstacle to peace: The signatory countries emphasized that the expansion of settlements undermines the implementation of the Gaza peace plan and hinders the transition to a resolution of the conflict. Opposition to annexation: The group reiterated its rejection of any form of territorial expansion, including the controversial E1 project and the creation of thousands of additional housing units. Two-state solution: The letter reaffirms support for the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, stating that "there is no alternative" to a negotiated settlement that recognizes both states. The Israeli announcement, spearheaded by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, raises the number of legalized or approved settlements in the last three years to 69, deepening the diplomatic rift with the international community at a critical time for the Middle East.
