Alexandra Thein: European Parliament expresses its concern for the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza

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Strasbourg, 5th July 2012 -

The European Parliament (EP) has passed a joint resolution on the EU policy on the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The EP expressed its deep concern for the developments in Area C, which comprises the majority of the West Bank and is controlled by Israel. The frequent violent attacks by Israeli settlers as well as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza were also mentioned. The resolution also calls on the Israeli government to meet its obligations under international law.

Alexandra Thein, Member of the Delegation for relations with the Palestinian Legislative Council and of the Delegation for relations with Israel, stated: “The majority of the EP has finally clarified its position. This joint resolution sends a clear signal and provides a clear picture about the current developments on the ground.” Thein was, however, not pleased about all aspects of the resolution: “As usual the resolution has been watered down during the negotiation process.”

In the resolution, the EP also mentions the report of European Union Heads of Missions on Area C and Palestinian state building. “This report clarifies that Israel’s policies in the West Bank and East Jerusalem stand in the way of a two-state solution”, Thein added. The two-state solution is supported by the EU, the United Nations and the United States.

Alexandra Thein criticised the lack of concrete steps towards a solution: “Despite the fact that the resolution clarifies some of the facts on the ground, we still do not have a concrete approach as to how the EU can secure a just and viable peace for Israelis and Palestinians. Yet again the immediate need to act was underlined, before a two-state solution becomes unattainable”.

Alexandra Thein MEP