UN Chief Condemns Israeli Settlement Expansion in West Bank, Citing Worst Displacement Since 1967

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned Israel's continuous expansion of illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. In a quarterly report on the West Bank, Guterres asserted that these settlement activities are a primary driver of the most severe displacement crisis the region has witnessed since 1967.

He detailed how the proliferation of illegal settler outposts escalates violence and restricts Palestinians' access to their land. Guterres warned that such developments exacerbate tensions, entrench the illegal occupation, and undermine Palestinian self-determination, posing a significant threat to the viability of a free and sovereign Palestinian state.

The UN chief specifically highlighted Israel's plans to develop the area known as E1, noting it would sever connections between the northern and southern parts of the West Bank. This, he stated, would severely impact Palestinian territorial contiguity and jeopardize the prospects for a two-state solution.

Furthermore, the report condemned the impunity enjoyed by illegal settlers, often acting with the presence or support of Israeli security forces. Guterres noted the rise in settler violence, access restrictions, demolitions, and prolonged security operations in recent years, contributing to the escalating displacement crisis.

In a joint statement ahead of a UN Security Council meeting on the West Bank, France, the United Kingdom, Greece, Latvia, and Denmark, all European members of the council, echoed these concerns. They urged the Israeli government to halt settlement expansion, ensure accountability for settler violence, and investigate alleged actions by Israeli forces.