Twelve Nations Condemn Israeli Actions in West Bank, Threaten Settlement Trade Curbs

Foreign ministers from Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and nine other nations have issued a joint statement expressing concern that Israeli policies in the West Bank jeopardize the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The diplomats cited the expansion of settlements and rising violence, including recent tenders for the E1 project, as factors worsening the situation.

Leaders from these countries, including UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, emphasized the urgent need to uphold the principle of a two-state solution. In response to settlement expansion, these nations are considering implementing national restrictions or supporting EU-wide measures to limit trade in goods from settlements deemed illegal under international law.

The statement called on the Israeli government to immediately halt the construction of new facilities, cease the expansion of administrative powers, and ensure accountability for those involved in violence. The ministers reaffirmed Israel's legitimate security interests, condemned the Hamas attack of October 7, and pledged to combat antisemitism globally.