Announcement of future constructions in East Jerusalem - Statement by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs’ Spokesperson

Paris, 27 September 2011

France condemns the Israeli authorities’ approval of the future construction of 1,100 homes in the settlement of Gilo in East Jerusalem. This decision is counterproductive at a time when the international community is increasing its efforts to ensure a swift resumption of the peace negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians.

In his speech on September 21 to the UNGA, President Sarkozy called on Israel to refrain from such gestures because they prejudge the outcome of the final status. Settlement activity, in the West Bank as well as in East Jerusalem, is illegal under international law, undermines trust between the parties and constitutes a serious threat to the two-State solution.

This announcement which comes on the heels of the Quartet statement, which notably reaffirmed the need to comply with the road map, seems to be a provocation. France urges Israel to reconsider its decision and to refrain from any act that could hinder the efforts of the international community to relaunch negotiations.

For more information, visit the Israel/Palestinian territories page.