Egypt Condemns Israel’s Decision to Build New Settlement in East Jerusalem
Egypt has strongly condemned Israel’s recent decision to construct a new settlement in occupied East Jerusalem. The move has been deemed a violation of international decisions and UN Security Council resolutions regarding the illegitimacy of Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.
First Settlement Plan Approved Since 2012
According to Ir Amim, a left-wing Israeli organization that monitors the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in Jerusalem, this is the first settlement plan to be fully approved by the Israeli government since 2012. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry has expressed its disapproval, stating that the decision undermines the existing legal, historical, and demographic context and seeks to separate parts of the land from its Palestinian surroundings.
Egypt Calls for Halt to Illegal Settlement Activities
Egypt has demanded that Israel immediately cease its illegal settlement activities. The country has consistently rejected Israel’s settlement policies in the entire occupied territories, including East Jerusalem. Egypt has also called upon influential international parties, such as the United Nations and its relevant bodies, to fulfill their responsibilities in protecting the rights of the Palestinian people and putting an end to unilateral Israeli settlement operations that undermine the foundations of peace.
Exploiting the Situation in Gaza
The Egyptian statement further emphasized the need for Israel to stop exploiting the world’s preoccupation with its conflict in Gaza to intensify its illegal practices in the West Bank, including settlement activities. By diverting attention away from its actions in the West Bank, Israel aims to further its agenda and expand its settlements.
The Annexation of East Jerusalem
Israel occupied East Jerusalem during the 1967 Arab-Israeli War and subsequently annexed the entire city in 1980. However, this move has never been recognized by the international community. The construction of new settlements in East Jerusalem is seen as a direct violation of international law and a hindrance to the prospects of a two-state solution.
The Reality of Israeli Settlements
Currently, there are approximately 700,000 Israeli settlers living in 164 settlements and 116 outposts in the occupied West Bank, adjacent to East Jerusalem. These settlements have been a major point of contention in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as they are considered illegal under international law. The expansion of settlements not only undermines the territorial integrity of a future Palestinian state but also exacerbates tensions and hampers the peace process.
International Pressure for a Resolution
The condemnation by Egypt adds to the growing international pressure on Israel to halt its settlement activities and comply with international law. Many countries, including Egypt, view the settlements as an obstacle to peace and a violation of Palestinian rights. The United Nations has repeatedly called for a freeze on settlement construction, and various resolutions have been passed to this effect.
Conclusion
Egypt’s condemnation of Israel’s decision to build a new settlement in East Jerusalem highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the urgency for a resolution. The international community must continue to exert pressure on Israel to halt its settlement activities and work towards a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. Only through dialogue and negotiation can a just and lasting solution be achieved.