EU Chief Criticizes Israeli Settlement Policy, Calls for European Unity

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has strongly condemned Israel's settlement policy, specifically denouncing the approval of a new settlement in the E1 area of Judea and Samaria as unacceptable to the European Union. Speaking in Brussels, she expressed deep concern over the suffering of Gaza residents and the ongoing violence by settlers in Judea and Samaria, noting these issues have alarmed European citizens.

Von der Leyen emphasized the need for the EU to adopt a firm stance against "ultranationalists." She described the 27-member bloc as facing a hostile world where external forces and internal radical movements aim to undermine democratic institutions and European unity. She urged European nations to unite in defending shared values and countering hybrid threats.

In addition to her remarks on Israeli policy, von der Leyen addressed European security concerns, proposing a special action plan with an emergency security protocol. This plan would ensure swift coordination among member states in response to threats against any single member. She also advocated for the creation of a European Security Council, including key international partners like Ukraine, the UK, Norway, and Canada, to foster a stronger, more independent Europe capable of defending its interests amid global instability.