Overview
- A joint statement issued on Friday, May 22, by several Western governments demanded Israel halt settlement expansion in the West Bank, called for accountability for rising settler violence, and urged investigation of alleged abuses by Israeli forces.
- The statement singled out the E1 area east of Jerusalem, saying development there would divide the West Bank and constitute a serious breach of international law.
- Governments warned companies not to bid on construction tenders for E1 or other settlements because doing so could carry legal and reputational risks under international law.
- The sharper diplomatic tone followed a widely shared video of National Security Minister Itamar Ben‑Gvir taunting Gaza‑bound activists and led countries to summon Israeli ambassadors while the Netherlands announced a ban on goods from illegal settlements.
- The move reflects growing Western concern that recent Israeli policy decisions and settler violence are eroding the territorial basis for a two‑state solution and are increasing economic and legal pressure on Israel and businesses linked to settlements.