PH: Israel settlement plan may hinder peace

The Philippines on Thursday urged Israel and other parties to avoid actions that could undermine the establishment of a future Palestinian state, expressing concern over Israeli efforts to advance the E1 settlement plan in the occupied West Bank and rising settler violence.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said these developments could hinder efforts to achieve a lasting solution to the conflict in the Middle East.

“We therefore urge all parties to desist from unilateral actions that erode the conditions for peace and undermine the viability of a future Palestinian state,” it added.

The E1 project refers to a proposed Israeli settlement development east of Jerusalem, between the city and the Israeli settlement of Ma’ale Adumim.

Two-state solution

According to the United Nations, Israeli authorities opened bidding in August for more than 1,200 housing units in the E1 area. The UN has warned that the project could divide the West Bank and affect the prospect of a contiguous Palestinian state.

The project has been a longstanding source of international concern because development there could affect the territorial continuity of the West Bank and complicate efforts to establish a future Palestinian state.

The latest move follows Israel’s approval last year of plans for more than 3,400 housing units in the E1.

The E1 development has drawn opposition from several governments. In an Aug. 21 joint statement, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada, Norway, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden and Belgium said the project could undermine the prospects for a two-state solution by dividing the West Bank.

According to the DFA, the Israeli government’s efforts to advance the E1 settlement plan and the continued rise in settler violence may contravene international law.

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At the same time, the Philippines also reaffirmed its support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.

“The Philippines remains resolute in upholding the fundamental and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, in particular the right to self-determination,” the DFA said.

Under the two-state solution—a proposal sought to end the conflict between Israel and Palestine—the Palestinian state will be comprised of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Should Israel push through with its settlement plan, the two-state solution would be impossible to implement, according to human rights groups and other foreign ministries. –WITH A REPORT FROM KEITH CLORES