European Commission opposes Israel's E-1 settlement project

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has expressed strong opposition to the Israeli government's decision to issue construction tenders for the E-1 settlement project. Von der Leyen stated that the move is unacceptable and undermines the two-state solution by dividing the West Bank and breaking the geographical unity of Palestinian territories.

She emphasized that under international law, Israeli settlements in the West Bank are illegal, a position supported by the United Nations Security Council. Von der Leyen called on the Israeli government to immediately withdraw these plans and halt settlement expansion, noting that such actions damage Israel's international standing and hinder prospects for peace.

Additionally, she advised commercial companies against bidding on these construction tenders, warning of potential legal and reputational risks.