UN chief condemns Israel's expansion of West Bank settlements

UN Secretary‑General António Guterres on Tuesday condemned the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, describing them as a “flagrant violation of international law” and warning that the policy fuels the surge in violence that has engulfed the region in recent weeks. In a statement released ahead of a scheduled UN Security Council briefing, Guterres urged all parties to halt settlement construction and demolition activities, reaffirming the United Nations’ long‑standing position that the settlements are illegal under the Fourth Geneva Convention and impede the prospect of a two‑state solution.

The remarks came as clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants intensified, with reports of dozens of casualties on both sides and heightened tensions in Jerusalem following a series of provocative incidents at holy sites. The Secretary‑General called on the international community to reinforce diplomatic efforts, support humanitarian aid delivery to affected civilians, and pursue renewed negotiations based on relevant UN resolutions. He emphasized that adherence to international law remains essential for de‑escalating the conflict and achieving a durable peace.