Norway’s Foreign Minister deplores the Israeli decision to expand settlement in Jerusalem

“Norway deplores the decision made by Israel to expand the Gilo settlement in East Jerusalem. The settlement is on occupied territory, and any expansion of this kind must be viewed as illegal under international law,” commented Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

On 17 November, the Israeli authorities decided to approve the expansion of the Jewish settlement Gilo in Jerusalem. A further 900 housing units will be added to the settlement. The Presidency of the EU, the US and UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon have all expressed their deep dismay over the decision to expand the settlement.

“The status of Jerusalem is of crucial importance for the prospects for peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians. The Israeli decision hampers and undermines the possibility of re-starting negotiations on a lasting two-state solution. It is essential that no unilateral actions are taken that can lead to further escalation of the conflict,” Mr Støre said.