In a significant diplomatic move, five European nations—Denmark, Greece, Latvia, the United Kingdom, and France—issued a joint statement condemning Israel's ongoing expansion of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The declaration was made during a session of the United Nations Security Council and highlights growing international concern over developments in the region. These countries expressed deep unease about recent events in the West Bank, emphasizing that the situation has deteriorated significantly, particularly in areas under Palestinian control, including East Jerusalem.
The joint statement underscores the importance of maintaining focus on the implementation of peace plans, specifically referencing Resolution 2334, which explicitly condemns Israeli settlement activities in occupied Palestinian territories. The five nations reiterated that these actions violate international law and undermine efforts toward a two-state solution, as well as regional stability. They criticized the continued Israeli government’s efforts to consolidate control over the occupied Palestinian land, noting that such actions contradict both international law and the principles outlined in Resolution 2334.
The statement also condemned the ongoing construction of Israeli settlements in the E1 area, warning that this would further divide the West Bank and isolate East Jerusalem. This, they argue, represents a deliberate and direct attack on the viability and continuity of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state. The nations emphasized that such actions constitute a clear violation of international law and pose unprecedented risks of annexation and forced displacement, which they strongly oppose.
Furthermore, the five countries rejected all measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character, and status of the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. They stressed the importance of preserving and respecting the historical status quo of the Holy Sites in Jerusalem. The statement also condemned repeated violations of this status quo, warning that such actions threaten regional stability.
The nations called for an immediate resumption of tax revenues owed by Israel to the Palestinian Authority, stating that these funds must be transferred according to the Paris Protocol and are essential for providing basic services to the Palestinian population and implementing reforms by the Palestinian Authority. Additionally, they highlighted the critical need for Israel to allow the United Nations, including UNRWA, and international NGOs to operate safely and extensively throughout the entire occupied Palestinian territory in accordance with international humanitarian law.
Regarding UNRWA, the five countries characterized the illegal demolition of its headquarters in East Jerusalem as an unprecedented act against a UN organization, undermining its ability to provide essential services to Palestinians as mandated. They welcomed the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice in October 2025 and urged Israel to fully comply with its obligations under international law.
Finally, Denmark, Greece, Latvia, the United Kingdom, and France reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the two-state solution, aligning with relevant UN resolutions and the New York Declaration. They emphasized the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, under Palestinian authority. The statement concluded with a call for a political process aimed at achieving a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace, security, and dignity.
2 reports
taz – die tageszeitungIndependentCenter15 hr. agoIn the Ukrainian city of Sumy, near the Russian border, a Russian air strike on Friday evening killed at least three people, including a five-year-old girl, and injured dozens more, some critically. The attack occurred on Shevchenko Avenue, a central area where locals often gather. Rescue workers described severe injuries, including amputations, and expressed shock at the scale of destruction. This attack is part of a new wave of Russian strikes using guided aerial bombs, which are difficult to intercept. Ukrainian forces are working to counter these attacks by targeting Russian aircraft, but such efforts remain challenging. The incident has deeply affected local residents and emergency responders, who had to repeatedly evacuate due to ongoing threats.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a specific military event during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, providing factual details about casualties, the nature of the attack, and the response from Ukrainian authorities. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The tone remains
Proto ThemaIndependentCenter5 days agoIsraeli forces conducted an air strike in southern Lebanon despite a recent agreement aimed at achieving lasting peace between Lebanon and Israel, mediated by the United States. The attack occurred in the area between the cities of Kantaara and Dir al-Sheriyan in the Nabatiyeh governorate, with Israeli artillery fire reported near Dir al-Sheriyan and against the city of Khan Yousef in the Bint Jbeil governorate. No casualties have been reported yet. This incident follows a framework agreement signed last Friday by Beirut and Tel Aviv, which aims to gradually de-escalate tensions and establish conditions for lasting peace. According to Lebanese health ministry data, at least 4,247 people have been killed and over 12,195 injured since the start of the Israeli military operation on March 2. Additionally, more than one million people have been displaced due to the conflict.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on an Israeli military action in Lebanon despite a peace agreement, presenting factual information without overtly favoring either side. It includes details from the Lebanese National News Agency (NNA) and mentions the Lebanese Health Ministry's casualty figures, providing a non-
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