A coalition of Muslim-majority and European nations has strongly condemned what it described as Israel’s attempts at the “unacceptable de facto annexation” of Palestinian land in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
In a joint statement issued on February 25, the countries criticized recent Israeli measures to designate large areas of West Bank territory as “state property,” warning that such actions accelerate illegal settlement expansion and further entrench Israeli administrative control over occupied land.
Countries Backing the Statement
The statement was endorsed by Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Brazil, France, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Egypt, Pakistan, Luxembourg, Norway, Palestine, Portugal, Qatar, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Arab Emirates, the League of Arab States, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The coalition emphasized that the measures violate international law and undermine prospects for a viable Palestinian state.
What Triggered the Condemnation?
Earlier this month, the Israeli government approved a proposal to formally register significant portions of the occupied West Bank as “state property” for the first time since Israel’s occupation of the territory following the Six-Day War.
Under international law, an occupying power is prohibited from confiscating land in occupied territory. Critics argue that registering land as state property strengthens Israeli civilian authority in Areas A and B of the West Bank, which together make up approximately 40 percent of the territory.
The joint statement described the move as part of a “clear trajectory” aimed at altering realities on the ground and advancing de facto annexation.
Legal and Diplomatic Concerns
The signatories said Israeli settlements are a “flagrant violation” of international law, referencing:
- United Nations Security Council resolutions
- The 2024 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice
The countries warned that these measures threaten the implementation of the Two-State Solution and risk permanently altering the legal and administrative status of the occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem.
They also stressed that unilateral changes contradict established agreements and weaken diplomatic pathways following the Trump-brokered Gaza ceasefire framework.
Concerns Over Settler Violence and Holy Sites
The coalition called on Israel to:
- Reverse the land registration decisions immediately
- Halt settlement expansion
- End settler violence
- Hold perpetrators accountable
Special attention was drawn to maintaining the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem’s holy sites, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The statement recognized Jordan’s historic Hashemite custodianship over Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem and condemned repeated violations of the status quo, warning that such actions threaten regional stability.
Palestinian Reaction
The Palestinian Presidency described the Israeli decision as a “serious escalation,” arguing it effectively nullifies prior agreements and contradicts UN Security Council resolutions.
Meanwhile, Hamas condemned the move as an attempt to “steal and Judaize lands” by registering them as so-called state lands.
Much of Palestinian land in the West Bank remains unregistered due to a complex legal process that was halted after 1967. Formal registration establishes permanent ownership — a key factor in the dispute.
Read More: Various foreign ministers condemn Israel over West Bank moves, statement says
FAQs
What does “de facto annexation” mean?
De facto annexation refers to actions that effectively integrate occupied territory into a state’s sovereign control without formally declaring annexation.
Why is land registration controversial?
Registering land as “state property” can shift control and ownership rights permanently. Critics argue it consolidates Israeli authority over occupied land in violation of international law.
What are Areas A and B?
Under the Oslo Accords framework:
- Area A is under Palestinian civil and security control.
- Area B has Palestinian civil control but Israeli security oversight.
Together, they comprise about 40% of the West Bank.
How do settlements relate to international law?
Most of the international community considers Israeli settlements in occupied territories illegal under international humanitarian law, though Israel disputes this interpretation.
Why is Jerusalem’s status significant?
Jerusalem holds deep religious significance for Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Changes to the status quo at holy sites often trigger regional tensions.
Conclusion
The joint condemnation by Muslim-majority and European countries signals mounting international concern over Israel’s recent land policies in the West Bank. By warning that the measures amount to de facto annexation, the coalition underscored fears that continued settlement expansion could permanently undermine the Two-State Solution and escalate regional instability.
As diplomatic tensions rise, the dispute over land registration highlights the broader struggle over sovereignty, international law, and the future political map of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
