Over a thousand EU MPs protest Israel's plans to annex the West Bank
A letter was signed by 1080 deputies representing 25 nations. The text highlights the "serious concerns" regarding the project. It risks having "fatal consequences for the prospects of peace". Criticism also arrives from the UN secretary general, who speaks of "devastating" effects for the region.
Brussels (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Over 1000 parliamentarians from the European Union (EU) have signed an open letter in which they express their opposition to Israel's plans for the annexation of part of the occupied territories in the West Bank and Jordan Valley. The text, published yesterday, raises "serious concerns" about the project and speculates "commensurate consequences" if it is carried out.
The annexation plan is scheduled to begin next week, starting July 1, following a directive from the current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The head of government – who is one of the most fervent supporters of the plan - wants to extend Israel's sovereignty over that part of the West Bank where there are Jewish settlements.
In the event of implementation - with US approval in the context of the controversial "Agreement of the Century" - the government of Israel would end up incorporating up to 30% of the territories claimed by the Palestinians as part of their future state.
The letter, sent through the EU foreign ministers, underlines that unilateral annexations of the territories could be "fatal for the prospects of Israeli-Palestinian peace and will jeopardize the basic rules that regulate international relations". Underwritten by 1080 MPs from 25 nations, it fits into the context of growing international pressure on U.S. President Donald Trump's plan for the Middle East region.
The initiative on the part of the MEPs, was promoted by former President of the Israeli Parliament (Knesset) Avraham Burg, along with three other political figures in the country who have always supported the two-state solution.
Also yesterday the UN secretary general Antonio Guterres intervened stating that the implementation of the Israeli-American plan - which he calls a "calamity" - would have "devastating" effects on the future talks and hopes for peace. The UN leader also appeals for the annexation project, which he calls "the most serious violation of international law,” to be archived.
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