UN warns new West Bank settlement outposts threaten two-state solution

The United Nations has expressed deep alarm over reports of new illegal Israeli settlement outposts in the occupied West Bank, warning that expansion in a key area could make a two-state solution impossible.

Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres, told reporters in New York that the UN chief is particularly concerned about developments in the E1 area, east of Jerusalem. He said the settlement there would effectively cut the connection between the northern and southern parts of the West Bank.

"As such, it would have severe consequences for the territorial integrity of the Occupied Palestinian Territory and present an existential threat to the two-State solution," Dujarric said.

Guterres called on Israel to halt any further steps in this regard and to act in line with relevant UN resolutions and the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion of July 19, 2024.

Separately, Dujarric reported that Israeli forces launched an operation in Daraya near Hebron, imposing a curfew, deploying snipers on rooftops, and blocking roads with earth mounds. UN humanitarian partners estimate that roughly 40,000 people, including children, are currently under curfew and unable to leave their homes.

The curfew is having an immediate humanitarian impact, preventing people from replenishing supplies, accessing essential services, or reaching workplaces. About seven Palestinian homes have reportedly been used as interim interrogation centers, with families confined to single rooms. Several arrests have also been reported.

Dujarric stressed that homes and families must be protected in any security operation, which must be conducted in a manner that respects international law, including the protection and dignity of civilians.

Meanwhile, UN agencies continue to provide support in the West Bank. UNRWA said about 4,000 children joined summer camps in 34 schools across the area, taking part in sports, art, theater, and psychosocial support activities.

In Gaza, Israeli military activities were reported west of the so-called Yellow Line. An Israeli airstrike killed at least seven people and injured others at a Gaza City seaport, according to initial local reports. Dujarric said such incidents put civilians at risk and restrict their ability to seek safety, medical care, and humanitarian assistance.