Denmark became a signatory to an international declaration opposing Israel’s plan to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank. The joint text criticized the Israeli government’s decision to publish construction tenders for the E1 settlement project.
The declaration was signed by Denmark, 20 other countries and the European Commission. The signatories said the E1 project could divide the West Bank and undermine the territorial integrity of the Palestinian territories.
Warning over the two-state solution
The joint statement said the settlement project could further weaken the prospects for a two-state solution. The signatories also said that international law does not permit Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and that the UN Security Council had reaffirmed the international position on the issue.
The text also expressed other concerns about developments in the West Bank. It said settler violence against civilians had reached unprecedented levels and that restrictions affecting the Palestinian economy were being imposed.
Call for Israel to withdraw its plans
The signatories called on Israel to withdraw its settlement plans and halt settlement expansion activities in the occupied West Bank. The declaration also urged companies not to submit bids for the construction tenders.
It said companies’ participation in the tenders could have legal and reputational consequences. The signatories warned that such participation could risk involvement in activities defined as serious violations of international law.
The countries and the European Commission that signed the declaration reiterated their commitment to a comprehensive, fair and lasting peace based on a two-state solution.
