Brussels, April 10 (QNA) - The European Union (EU) affirmed Friday the illegality of the Israeli decision to establish more than 30 new settlements in the occupied West Bank, as it violates international law and undermines the prospects for peace and a two-state solution.

In a statement, the EU condemned the unilateral measures taken by the Israeli entity to expand its presence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, which the International Court of Justice declared illegal in its advisory opinion issued on July 19, 2024.

The EU called on the occupying government to reverse these decisions and abide by its obligations under international law, and to protect the Palestinian population in the occupied territories.

The EU also condemned the continued and escalating settler violence against Palestinian civilians, reiterating its commitment to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on a two-state solution in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

The Palestinian Presidency yesterday (Thursday) condemned the occupation's approval of the establishment of more than 30 new settlements in the West Bank, considering it a dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of international law and international legitimacy resolutions. (QNA)