CFSP Statement
Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union concerning the announcement of plans to build 3,500 new housing units in Maale Adumim in the West Bank

Date of release : 05-04-2005

Policy area : General Affairs and External Relations

The European Union is deeply concerned over the announcement by the Israeli authorities of a plan to build 3,500 new housing units in Maale Adumim and plans to expand two other settlement blocks in the West Bank.

The European Union deplores the negative impact that this announcement risks having on the confidence between the two parties at a time when a genuine window of opportunity exists to relaunch the peace process.

The continuation of settlement activity by Israel would be a violation of international humanitarian law, the relevant UN resolutions and Israeli commitments in the context of the roadmap.

Although the European Union is encouraged by the prospect of the dismantling of settlements in Gaza and parts of the West Bank, it calls on Israel to observe its obligations, to freeze all settlement activity, and to dismantle outposts.

No party should take unilateral steps that could prejudge the results of the final status negotiations.

 The European Union strongly encourages the Israelis and Palestinians to continue along the path of dialogue and political negotiations. The European Union is committed to continue to support the parties’ efforts to advance the peace process and achieve the objective of co-existence of two States by creating an independent, democratic, viable and contiguous Palestinian State, living side by side with Israel and its other neighbours in peace and security.