Von der Leyen Calls Israeli Settlement Policy 'Completely Unacceptable'

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has strongly condemned Israel's ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank, labeling it "completely unacceptable." Speaking at a press conference in Cork, Ireland, she asserted that this policy directly jeopardizes the prospects for a two-state solution, which the EU considers the sole feasible route to enduring peace in the region.

Von der Leyen characterized the situation regarding settlements as deteriorating and highlighted what she termed an "abhorrent use of violence." She announced that the European Commission is actively developing potential responses to these persistent violations of international law. These proposals are expected to be presented to EU member states shortly.

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This undermines the future of the two-state solution, which in our view is the only viable solution for a lasting peace.

However, the Commission President urged caution regarding the anticipated outcomes of these deliberations. She referenced a proposal from ten months prior to withdraw free trade benefits for Israel, which has yet to gain sufficient support from member states, notably due to opposition from Germany. This proposal remains under consideration by the member states, who would need to vote on it by qualified majority.

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This proposal remains on the table for the member states, who would have to vote on it by qualified majority.