Press release

Mark Field statement on settlement plans across the West Bank

Acting Minister for the Middle East Mark Field condemns the advancement of plans by the Israeli authorities for further settlement units across the West Bank.

Acting Minister for the Middle East Mark Field commented:

The UK strongly condemns the Israeli authorities’ advancement on 5 April of plans and tenders for yet more settlement units across the West Bank.

This follows the announcement in December for over 2,000 units. Settlements are illegal under international law and undermine the physical viability of the two-state solution.

I call on Israel to halt such counterproductive action, and for all parties to commit to further efforts to de-escalate current tensions and create the right environment for a just and lasting peace.

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Published 7 April 2019