Israeli settlements are illegal: EU

European Union member states have reaffirmed their longstanding position that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are illegal under international law, amid growing international pressure over Israel’s settlement expansion.

The issue has gained renewed attention after several European countries moved independently to restrict trade in goods produced in Israeli settlements.

The United Kingdom, France and nine other European countries, along with Canada, announced coordinated measures targeting settlement products on September 8.

However, the 27-member EU has not reached consensus on imposing bloc-wide sanctions.

Countries including Germany and Hungary have opposed broader measures, while other member states have pushed for stronger action against settlement activity.

The EU’s position is rooted in international law and its longstanding non-recognition of Israeli sovereignty over territories occupied since 1967.

EU officials have repeatedly said that settlement expansion threatens the viability of a two-state solution.

The latest moves by European governments mark a significant shift, with countries increasingly considering trade restrictions and other measures to pressure Israel over settlement expansion and settler violence.

Israel has rejected such measures and disputes the characterization of the settlements as illegal.