Palestine Slams Israeli Settlement Plan in West Bank’s Area A

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has denounced a highly dangerous Israeli settlement initiative aimed at expanding settler presence in areas designated as “Area A” in the occupied West Bank. According to the ministry, the project is being driven by Israeli settler groups and organisations, including the so-called “Union of Settlement Farms,” with support from members of the Israeli government. The plan reportedly seeks to establish settler outposts at nearly 100 locations within territories that fall under Palestinian administrative control. Palestinian officials said the move represents a serious breach of international law and existing agreements, calling it part of a systematic effort to alter realities on the ground. They warned that the expansion threatens regional security and stability and further damages prospects for implementing a two-state solution. The ministry reiterated that Israel holds no legitimate sovereignty over any occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem, stressing that the occupation and settlement activities are considered illegal under international law and carry no legal legitimacy. The ministry said Israel’s continued occupation and settlement expansion remain the central cause of Palestinian suffering and a major barrier to achieving lasting peace and security in the region. Palestine also urged the international community, the United Nations, and the Security Council to take immediate and concrete action to halt settlement expansion, pressure Israel to adhere to international law and UN resolutions, implement the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice, reverse settlement policies, respect previously signed agreements, and end the occupation to pave the way for an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Qatar confirms US envoys in Doha, rules out direct talks with Iran