A joint statement from France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom calls on Israel to halt settlement expansion, hold violent settlers accountable, and uphold Jerusalem’s Hashemite custodianship and the historic status quo.

They specifically oppose the E1 project, warning it would sever contiguity in the West Bank and breach international law.

The leaders describe a sharp deterioration in the West Bank and call out unprecedented settler violence against Palestinians.

The report notes the story is drawn from a syndicated feed and was not edited by the original outlet.

The broader backdrop includes renewed EU criticism of Israel from traditionally supportive governments, following provocative incidents amid Gaza-related tensions.

The article reflects the joint positions of the four European countries as of May 22, 2026.

Germany’s Foreign Ministry states there are no confirmed ICC arrest warrants or investigations against Israel or Palestine at this time and explains ICC disclosure practices.

Chancellor Merz emphasizes on social media that the violence has reached an unprecedented scale, mirroring cross-border condemnation.

The Bedouin village Khan al-Ahmar sits east of Jerusalem in the strategic E1 corridor, a key tension point where Israeli control is strongest.

The dispute centers on Chan al-Ahmar in E1, a region that links the north and south of the West Bank and remains under substantial Israeli control.

The signatories reaffirm a commitment to a comprehensive two-state peace with Israel and a future Palestinian state living side by side within secure, recognized borders.

All four countries reiterate support for a two-state solution and peaceful coexistence within defined borders.