Former EU Officials Urge Action Against Israeli West Bank Settlement Plan

A significant group of former European Union ministers, ambassadors, and senior officials have issued a strong call to action, urging EU member states and institutions to actively deter Israel from proceeding with its controversial settlement plans in the E1 area of the occupied West Bank. This initiative, spearheaded by a collective of experienced diplomats and political figures, highlights deep-seated concerns within Europe regarding the potential ramifications of this construction.

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To this end the Israeli government intends to publish on 1st June an initial tender for construction in the E1 area of 3401 residential units to provide housing for up to 15,000 illegal settlers.

The former officials argue that the proposed settlement would effectively bisect the West Bank, a move they believe would irrevocably damage any prospects for a viable two-state solution. Their statement specifically points to Israel's intention to publish tenders for 3,401 residential units in the E1 area, a development they see as a direct challenge to international law and the peace process. This planned expansion, they contend, is proceeding despite years of dialogue and engagement aimed at preventing such illegal land acquisition.

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This E1 tender is proceeding despite persistent efforts by the EU and like-minded countries over many years to engage Israel in a critical dialogue to prevent it from illegally acquiring Palestinian land by force.

The signatories are not merely expressing disapproval; they are demanding concrete measures. Their call for targeted sanctions, including visa bans and prohibitions on doing business within the EU, targets a wide range of individuals and entities involved in settlement activity. This includes politicians, settler leaders, Israeli land and local government authorities, and even the professionals and financial institutions that facilitate such projects. The message from this influential group is clear: the EU must move beyond dialogue and implement tangible deterrents to uphold international law and preserve the possibility of peace in the region.

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The EU and its Member States must act now - including at the Foreign Affairs Council of 11th May - to oppose, together with partners, Israeli illegal settlement actions notably those in the E1 area.