Hours after Israel began demolishing illegally built homes in east Jerusalem on Monday, the EU issued a harsh statement denouncing the measure.
"Israeli authorities have proceeded with the demolition of 10 Palestinian buildings, containing some 70 apartments, in Wadi al Hummus, part of Sur Baher neighborhood in occupied East Jerusalem," the EU said in a statement.
"Israel's settlement policy, including actions taken in that context … is illegal under international law. In line with the EU's long-standing position, we expect the Israeli authorities to immediately halt the ongoing demolitions."
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The demolitions capped a yearslong legal battle over the buildings, built along the seamline straddling the city and Judea and Samaria. Israel maintains the buildings were erected too close to the security fence built in the area, but the residents claim the buildings are in Area A, which is under the full control of the Palestinian Authority, and which they say gave them construction permits.
In the wake of a recent High Court of Justice decision clearing the way for the demolitions, Israeli work crews moved into the neighborhood overnight to carry out the demolition.
"The continuation of this policy undermines the viability of the two-state solution and the prospect for a lasting peace and seriously jeopardizes the possibility of Jerusalem serving as the future capital of both States," the EU warned on Monday.
