The EU High Representative joined foreign ministers from a group of partner countries in condemning Israeli approval of settlement construction plans in the E1 area east of Jerusalem.
The joint statement described the decision as a violation of international law and warned that development in the area could further undermine the viability of a two-state solution by separating Palestinian territory and restricting access to Jerusalem.
The signatories called on the Israeli government to halt the plan, stop settlement construction in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2334 and remove restrictions affecting the finances of the Palestinian Authority.