Israel’s move toward the launch of the US’ Deal of the Century peace plan and steps towards the annexation of Judea and Samaria “could not pass unchallenged,” the European Union threatened Israel.
EU High Representative Josep Borrell stated Tuesday that the EU is “fully committed to the transatlantic partnership and values all efforts to help find a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.”
“The EU recalls its commitment to a negotiated two-State solution, based on 1967 lines, with equivalent land swaps, as may be agreed between the parties, as set out in the Council Conclusions of July 2014,” the statement
The US’ Deal of the Century “departs from these internationally agreed parameters,” the EU stated, falling in line with Russia’s objections on the issue.
“To build a just and lasting peace, the unresolved final status issues must be decided through direct negotiations between both parties,” the EU asserted, calling on both sides to “re-engage and to refrain from any unilateral actions contrary to international law that could exacerbate tensions.”
The EU is “especially concerned” by Israel’s statements on the prospect of the annexation of the Jordan Valley and other parts of Judea and Samaria ad stressed that it does not recognize Israel’s sovereignty over “the territories occupied since 1967.”
“Steps towards annexation, if implemented, could not pass unchallenged,” the EU threatened.
The EU’s harsh statement essentially completely rejecting the US’ peace plan runs counter to several announcements issued by European and Arab leaders lending cautious support to the initiative.