BRUSSELS—In a statement, the European Union criticized the publication by the Israeli authorities of tenders for the construction of over 800 settlement units in Jerusalem neighborhoods of Ramot and Pisgat Zeev.
The EU describes the two as ”settlements in occupied East Jerusalem.”
The statement by EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini’s spokesperson said that ‘’the policy of settlement construction and expansion in East Jerusalem continues to undermine the possibility of a viable two state solution with Jerusalem as the future capital of both states, which is the only realistic way to achieve a just and lasting peace.’’
The statement added : ‘’The European Union is strongly opposed to Israel’s settlement policy, including in East Jerusalem, which is illegal under international law and an obstacle to peace. The EU will continue to engage with both parties and with its international and regional partners to support a resumption of a meaningful process towards a negotiated two-state solution.’’