Pakistan Warns Israel’s E-1 Settlement Plan Threatens Future of Palestinian State at UN
Pakistan Raises Concern Over Israel’s E-1 Settlement Plan at the United Nations
New York: Pakistan has strongly criticized Israel’s proposed E-1 settlement expansion plan, describing it as a serious threat to the future of an independent Palestinian state.
Speaking during a United Nations Security Council session, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories continues to deteriorate due to ongoing settlement expansion and repeated violations of international law.
Pakistan Calls E-1 Plan a Threat to the Two-State Solution
Addressing Security Council members, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar stated that Israel’s E-1 settlement project could break the geographical continuity needed for a viable Palestinian state.
He said the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank raises serious concerns and weakens international efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful two-state solution.
Pakistan urged the international community to ensure that international law and UN resolutions are fully respected.
UN Report Highlights Settlement Expansion
The Pakistani envoy referred to the latest report by the UN Secretary-General, noting that approval for approximately 4,750 housing units in occupied Palestinian territories reflects a worrying trend.
According to Pakistan, the increasing number of settlement projects makes the prospect of a negotiated peace agreement more difficult.
Concerns Over Palestinian Institutions
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar also expressed concern over restrictions affecting the Palestinian Authority.
He said financial measures targeting Palestinian institutions could weaken governance and increase instability in the occupied territories.
Pakistan emphasized that strengthening Palestinian institutions is essential for lasting peace and regional stability.
Background of the E-1 Settlement Plan
The E-1 area lies between East Jerusalem and the West Bank. The proposed settlement project has long been viewed by many international observers as a sensitive issue because it could affect territorial connectivity between different Palestinian areas.
Previous Israeli plans approved thousands of housing units in the region, drawing criticism from several countries and international organizations.
Pakistan Reaffirms Support for Palestine
Pakistan reiterated its longstanding support for the Palestinian people and reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution based on relevant UN resolutions and international law.
The country called on all parties to avoid actions that could further increase tensions and reduce the chances of achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
Conclusion
Pakistan has urged the international community to closely monitor developments related to Israel’s E-1 settlement plan, warning that continued settlement expansion could further complicate peace efforts and undermine hopes for a negotiated two-state solution.
