New york: The UN has condemned Israel's recent decision to approve over 3,400 new housing units in the occupied West Bank, describing it as a violation of international law. This development has sparked significant international concern due to its potential impact on the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, the condemnation was made through a statement by Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The statement highlighted the Secretary-General's strong disapproval of the Higher Planning Committee's approval of the housing units in the E1 area, emphasizing that these settlements contradict United Nations resolutions.

The UN statement further elaborated that the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, pose a serious challenge to the two-State solution, which is considered essential for achieving lasting peace in the region. The advancement of this settlement project is viewed as a direct threat to the possibility of establishing a contiguous and viable Palestinian state.

Additionally, the statement expressed concerns about the potential geographical implications of the plan, warning that it could sever the northern and southern parts of the West Bank. This division would significantly undermine the territorial continuity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, complicating efforts to resolve the conflict.

The statement concluded with a reiteration of the Secretary-General's call for the Israeli government to cease all settlement activities immediately. It urged Israel to fully comply with its obligations under international law, in accordance with UN resolutions and the International Court of Justice's Advisory Opinion from July 19, 2024.