Thank you Chair.

Let me begin by reaffirming the commitment of the European Union to a just and comprehensive resolution of the Israeli Palestinian conflict through a two-state solution and an agreement that ends the occupation which began in 1967, ending all claims and fulfilling the aspirations of both parties, including Israeli and Palestinian security needs and Palestinian aspirations for statehood and sovereignty, on the basis of relevant UN Security Council Resolutions and internationally agreed parameters. The EU's firm and united position on these Resolutions and parameters has been set out in detail on numerous occasions. We reaffirm our readiness to work with both parties and our partners in the region and the international community towards the resumption of meaningful negotiations to resolve all final status issues and to achieve a just and lasting peace.

In line with international law, including Resolution 2334 (2016), the EU has consistently reiterated its strong opposition to Israel's settlement policy and actions taken in this context. The EU calls on Israel to halt continued settlement expansion, including in and around East Jerusalem, and especially in sensitive areas such as E1, which severely threatens the two-state solution and seriously jeopardizes the possibility of Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both States. Such actions as evictions, forced transfers, including in Masafer Yatta, demolitions, including of EU funded projects, and confiscations of homes will only escalate an already tense environment. Settlements are illegal under international law.  The EU has also made clear that it will not recognize any changes to the pre-1967 borders, including with regard to Jerusalem, other than those agreed by the parties. We expect both parties to act in accordance with international law.

Furthermore the EU stresses the need for language on the holy sites of Jerusalem to reflect the importance and historical significance of the holy sites for the three monotheistic religions and to respect religious and cultural sensitivities.

The EU is worried by the deteriorating situation on the ground and increased violence in the occupied West Bank, which fuel tensions and animosity, and calls for efforts to de-escalate.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains a grave concern.  We call once again upon all parties to take urgent steps in line with Resolution 2334 leading to a fundamental change in the humanitarian, political, security and economic situation in Gaza, including through an end to the closure policy, full opening of crossing points, and humanitarian access, while addressing Israel's legitimate security concerns. While welcoming the easing of some restrictions by Israel, the EU calls for further and structured lifting of restrictions for the improvement of the lives of the millions of people living in Gaza under dismal conditions.

Strong, inclusive, accountable and functioning democratic Palestinian institutions based on the respect for the rule of law and human rights are vital for the two-state solution. In this context, a date should be set for national elections in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and in the Gaza Strip.  The EU urges all Palestinian factions to engage in good faith in the reconciliation process, to adhere to previous agreements, renounce violence and terrorism, and recognise Israel’s right to exist and to commit to democratic principles, including the rule of law. Civil society must be allowed by all parties to carry out its important task freely, while freedom of expression must be upheld.

The EU has welcomed the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and a number of countries and will seek to encourage and build upon this with a view to enhancing the prospects to reach a comprehensive settlement in the Middle East Peace Process.  

Chair,

The EU considers that it remains of utmost importance to restore a political horizon towards a two-state solution, to witness real and tangible progress on the ground, develop confidence-building measures, improve living conditions for the people and open the path towards
relaunching of the peace process. It calls on all sides to genuinely recommit to reaching a two-state solution in order to enhance stability, increase prosperity and
strengthen security for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

Thank you.