Archive · 26 Dec 2025
Israel Rejects 14-Nation Call on West Bank Settlements
Israel recently approved plans for 19 new settlements in the West Bank.
This decision was criticized by 14 countries, including the UK, France, and Germany, who said it violates international law and could make the region less stable.
Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, disagreed strongly.
He said foreign countries shouldn't tell Israel where Jews can live and that Israel has the right to build these settlements based on historical agreements and laws.
The settlements are in an area called 'Area C' in the West Bank, which Israel considers its own land.
The 14 countries warned that this move could make things worse in the region, especially when efforts are being made to improve the situation in Gaza and reduce tensions.
Israel approved 19 new settlements in the West Bank, including 11 new ones and recognizing 8 existing ones.
14 countries condemned the move, stating it violates international law and risks further destabilizing the region.
Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar rejected the criticism, asserting that foreign governments have no right to restrict Jewish settlement rights in the Land of Israel.
Sa'ar argued that the settlements are in Area C, considered Israeli state land, and are necessary for security.
The 14 countries' statement highlighted the move's potential to undermine efforts for Gaza and regional de-escalation.
- Who
- Israel and 14 foreign countries (Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, United Kingdom)
- What
- Israel's approval of 19 new settlements in the West Bank and the international response
- When
- December 25, 2023
- Where
- West Bank, Israel
- Why
- Israel cites security considerations and historical/legal rights, while the 14 countries argue the move violates international law and risks regional destabilization
- Countries Involved
- Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, United Kingdom
- Settlements Approved
- 19
- New Settlements
- 11
- Recognized Settlements
- 8
- Area of Settlements
- Area C, West Bank
- Israeli Official
- Gideon Sa'ar (Foreign Minister)
- International Law Cited
- Balfour Declaration, San Remo Conference, UN Charter Article 80
