1. Israel
Statement by M. Laurent Fabius, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development
(Paris, 02/10/2014)
We solemnly condemn the Israeli authorities' decision to approve the construction of 2,610 housing units in Givat Hamatos.
If this decision is upheld, it will mark the first time in more than 15 years that a new settlement has been established in East Jerusalem. This announcement is a direct threat to the two-state solution and Jerusalem's intended status as the capital of those two states, at a time when all efforts must be directed towards achieving peace.
We urge the Israeli authorities to reverse this decision. One cannot claim to advocate one solution while at the same time acting against it without triggering consequences, particularly on the part of the European Union.
Country: France, Israel
Subject: International presence, Jerusalem, Legal issues, Occupation, Settlements, Statehood-related
Publication Date: 02/10/2014