Brussels: A senior European official said today that the annexation of the West Bank by the Israeli occupying authorities constitutes a violation of international law and undermines the two-state solution.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, EU spokesperson Anouar El Anouni stated during a meeting with a Palestinian media delegation at the European Commission headquarters that the EU is closely monitoring developments in the West Bank. These developments include violations committed by colonists, the construction of colonial settlements, land seizure, and home demolitions.
El Anouni highlighted that the ongoing situation in the West Bank is unacceptable and would undermine the two-state solution. He reiterated that the annexation of the West Bank is a clear breach of international law. Additionally, he pointed out that Israel's withholding of Palestinian Authority (PA) tax revenues is causing a collapse in services provided by the PA.
Emphasizing the urgency of releasing the tax revenues, El Anouni noted that this action is essential for enabling the PA to function effectively. He mentioned that the European Union has approved aid packages and plays a significant role as the largest supporter in many fields.
Furthermore, El Anouni outlined that the EU has proposed several punitive measures to address colonists' violence. He confirmed that sanctions were imposed on nine colonists and five colonist entities, with three sanctions implemented in April 2024 and two in July of the same year.