The spokesman of the European External Action Service denounced, on Monday 22 July, the demolition by the Israeli authorities of 10 Palestinian buildings containing some 70 apartments in Wadi al Hummus, in the Sur Baher neighbourhood of Occupied East Jerusalem.
"In line with the EU’s long-standing position, we expect the Israeli authorities to immediately halt the ongoing demolitions", he said in a statement.
"Israel’s settlement policy, including actions taken in that context, such as forced transfers, evictions, demolitions and confiscations of homes, is illegal under international law", the spokesman said.
According to him, most of the demolished buildings were located in areas A and B of the West Bank where, according to the Oslo Accords, all civil matters fall under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority.
The continuation of the settlement policy undermines the viability of the two-State solution and the prospect of lasting peace and seriously compromises the possibility of Jerusalem becoming the future capital of both States, the spokesman warned.
In addition, at the beginning of July, Israel reportedly destroyed three water tanks and at least 2,500 trees financed by Belgium. The damage is estimated to amount to more than 75,000 euros and the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced its intention to seek compensation from the Israeli authorities. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)