DFA alarmed by Israel's West Bank settlement plan, says it could violate int'l law

Make this your preferred source to get more updates from this publisher on Google.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday expressed alarm over the Israeli government's settlement plan in the West Bank, citing it could violate international law.

“We express our deep concern over recent developments in the West Bank. We note with alarm the efforts of the Israeli government to advance the E1 settlement plan as well as the continued rise of settler violence in the West Bank,” the DFA said in a statement.

“The Philippines views these actions, which may contravene international law, as detrimental to finding a just, lasting and comprehensive solution to the Middle East conflict,” it added.

The DFA also urged all parties to refrain from unilateral actions that could undermine peace efforts and prospects for a future Palestinian state.

“The Philippines remains resolute in upholding the fundamental and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, in particular the right to self-determination,” the department said.

The DFA made the statement that came after Israel approved a major new settlement project in the West Bank.

Tel Aviv plans to build over 1,200 homes under the East 1 (E1) settlement—projects to expand its Ma’ale Adumim settlement and connect it to Jerusalem. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA News