While congratulating Israel for the formation of its new government, European Union High Representative Josep Borrell reminded Israel, in light of its plans to annex occupied West Bank Palestinian land, that the EU will not recognize any unagreed on changes to the 1967 borders.
“International law is a fundamental pillar of the international rules-based order. In this respect, the EU and its Member States recall that they will not recognize any changes to the 1967 borders unless agreed by Israelis and Palestinians. The two-state solution, with Jerusalem as the future capital for both States, is the only way to ensure sustainable peace and stability in the region,” said the EU’s foreign policy chief in a statement.
“We strongly urge Israel to refrain from any unilateral decision that would lead to the annexation of any occupied Palestinian territory and would be, as such, contrary to International Law,” he said.
Borrell said the EU notes “with grave concern” the provision to be submitted for approval by the Israeli cabinet on the annexation of parts of occupied Palestinian territories, as stated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when presenting his government to the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, on 17 May and as envisaged in the coalition agreement signed earlier.
He reiterated that with regard to the Middle East peace process, “the EU is willing to support and facilitate resumed meaningful negotiations between the two parties, to resolve all final status issues and achieve a just and lasting peace. We stand ready to engage immediately with the new government and with all relevant stakeholders.”
