Background on the Conflict
Israel has occupied Cisjordania since 1967, with approximately three million Palestinians and around 500,000 Israelis living there in settlements deemed illegal under international law.
Israeli Minister’s Controversial Proposal
On Thursday, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, from the far-right, called for accelerating a key construction project in Cisjordania. This project includes building over 3,400 housing units east of Jerusalem and annexing this Palestinian territory occupied by Israel. The proposal has drawn international condemnation.
France’s Response and Concerns
In response to this proposal, France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that they “condemn with the greatest firmness the decision of the Israeli authorities to validate the E1 settlement project, which foresees the construction of more than 3,000 housing units east of Jerusalem.”
The French government emphasized that this settlement project “would split Cisjordania in two and seriously undermine the two-state solution, which is the only viable path to lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.”
France’s Commitment to Pressure Israel
France has pledged to remain mobilized alongside its European partners to intensify pressure on Israel with the aim of ending the colonization. This may include imposing new sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for the settlement activities.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue at hand? The controversy revolves around Israel’s plan to build 3,400 housing units in Cisjordania, which France considers a grave violation of international law.
- Who is Bezalel Smotrich? He is an Israeli Finance Minister from the far-right, who has called for accelerating a construction project in Cisjordania and annexing the Palestinian territory.
- Why is France concerned about this project? France believes the project would split Cisjordania in two, seriously undermining the two-state solution and lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.
- What actions will France take? France intends to work with European partners to increase pressure on Israel, potentially implementing new sanctions against those responsible for settlement activities.
