The situation in the occupied West Bank is worsening rapidly. In recent days, there has been a steep rise in settler violence, intimidation, and the destruction of homes and property — including the killing of three Palestinians in Kafr Malik on Wednesday. This must come to an end.

We call on Israel to take concrete action to prevent settler violence against Palestinians and ensure the perpetrators of crimes are held accountable. In the current difficult situation, all efforts should be directed at de-escalating tensions.

The EU recalls that settlements are illegal under international law and constitute an obstacle to peace.