UK, France, Germany, Italy and Canada condemn Israel's West Bank settlement project
A coalition of Western nations, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Canada, has condemned Israel's plans to build 1,200 settlement homes in the West Bank. The countries argue the project threatens the two-state solution and regional stability.
Why it matters
Reflects significant international diplomatic tension regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the future of the West Bank.
Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, File photo of the Israeli settlement of Maale Adumim in the occupied West Bank next to the so-called E1 project in East Jerusalem, taken in February 2026
Israel's plans to open up tenders for the construction of some 1,200 settlement homes in a strategically important part of the occupied West Bank have sparked fresh condemnation by major Western powers.
In a joint statement, the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Canada called the decision "unacceptable" , external and urged Israel to "retract the plans immediately".
All settlements are illegal under international law and, under international pressure, Israel held off for decades on plans to build in E1 to the east of Jerusalem.
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