Brussels: The European Commission has joined a growing chorus of voices condemning Israel's recent announcement to issue tenders for the construction of a settlement project known as E1 in the occupied West Bank. The criticism highlights increasing international concern over the implications of the project on regional stability.
According to Emirates News Agency, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed disapproval through a post on the X platform, stating, "The Israeli government's decision to issue tenders for the construction of the 'E1' settlement project is unacceptable." She further emphasized that opposition to this step has been longstanding.
The announcement has also drawn criticism from several key international players. France, Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, and Norway have urged Israel to immediately abandon its plans for this new settlement project and to halt the expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank. Their collective stance reflects a unified call for Israel to reconsider its actions in the region.