United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Israel to reverse its decision to deepen control over the occupied West Bank, warning that such actions could further escalate tensions and undermine prospects for peace in the region.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, the UN chief expressed serious concern over reported measures aimed at expanding Israeli authority and settlement activity in the West Bank. He said these steps run contrary to international law and relevant UN resolutions.
Guterres reiterated that the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory and stressed that unilateral actions altering its status are unacceptable. He cautioned that deepening control would only fuel instability and make a negotiated two-State solution more difficult to achieve.
The Secretary-General called on Israel to cease settlement expansion, land confiscation and other actions that undermine the viability of a contiguous and independent Palestinian state. He also urged all parties to exercise restraint and avoid measures that could lead to further violence.
Reaffirming the United Nations’ long-standing position, Guterres said that lasting peace can only be achieved through direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians, based on international law, UN resolutions and previous agreements.
The UN chief concluded by calling on the international community to intensify efforts to preserve the possibility of a two-State solution and to support initiatives that promote peace, security and stability in the Middle East.
