The EU stated that the ‘’recent decisions of the Israeli authorities to further advance settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem call into question the Israeli government's stated commitment to a negotiated two-state solution in the Middle East Peace Process.’’

The statement, issued by EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini’s spokesperson, added that ‘’the governmental plans to consider the approval of unauthorized outposts across the West Bank would further undermine the practical possibility of implementing the two-state solution.’’ The EU expects the Israeli government to demonstrate its commitment to the two-state solution not only in words, but also through its actions.

The EU urged the Israeli government to ‘’urgently reverse recent decisions and put an end to settlement expansion.’’

Recalling that ‘’all settlements are illegal under international law,’’ the European Union reiterated ‘’its strong commitment to ensure compliance with international law as a cornerstone of peace and security.’’

The statement also reads, ‘’As reaffirmed in the most recent Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions of July 20, the EU strongly opposes Israel's settlement policy and actions taken in this context, such as building the separation barrier beyond the 1967 line, demolitions and confiscations – including of EU funded projects- evictions, forced transfers including of Bedouins, illegal outposts, settler violence and restrictions of movement and access.’’

The EU statement follows the announcement that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the green light to the construction of 300 homes in the West Bank settlement of Beit El. Approval had already been given to the new housing units three years ago, with construction awaiting the go ahead of the political leadership.

Netanyahu also announced approval of hundreds of housing units in parts of Jerusalem which are situated over the Green Line, beyond the pre-1967 borders, some of which had also received prior permission. that included, 115 units in Pisgat Ze’ev, 300 units in Ramot, 70 units in Gilo, and 19 units in Har Homa.

Netanyahu ordered the authorization of the construction shortly after Israel’s Supreme Court ruled that two unfinished apartment buildings in the Beit El settlement must be demolished on the grounds that the property was built on land registered to Palestinians and the building did not have the correct permits.

Within hours cranes began to take apart the structures, which would have housed 24 apartments.

Once the High Court of Justice issued its final decision on the matter Wednesday afternoon, Netanyahu said the rule of law must be respected.

“Israel is a law abiding democratic state that respects the decision of the courts,” Netanyahu said.

The Court ruling triggered a tense 48-hour stand-off between Israeli security forces and settler activists protesting the demolition order.