US: New ’Israeli’ Settlement Plans Provocative and Counterproductive

Local Editor

The United States slammed on Tuesday as "provocative" the "Israeli" plans to build hundreds of new settlement units in occupied east al-Quds, saying they seriously undermined the prospect of the so-called peace with the Palestinians.

"We are deeply concerned by reports today that the government of "Israel" has published tenders for 323 units in east "Jerusalem" [al-Quds] settlements," State Department spokesman John Kirby said in a statement on Wednesday.

"This follows Monday's announcement of plans for 770 units in the settlement of Gilo."

He further mentioned: "These steps by "Israeli" authorities are the latest examples of what appears to be a steady acceleration of settlement activity that is systematically undermining the prospects for a two-state solution," Kirby said.

"We remain troubled that "Israel" continues this pattern of provocative and counterproductive action, which raises serious questions about "Israel's" ultimate commitment to a peaceful, negotiated settlement with the Palestinians."

Palestinian leaders and the United Nations joined in condemning plans advanced this week for 770 new units that would expand the Gilo settlement on the southern perimeter of east al-Quds.

They are part of a larger "Israeli" plan for around 1,200 units approved some three years ago, according to reports.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team