During the plenary session (25-28 November 2019) of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, MEPs debate on the situation in Israel and Palestine, including the settlements.

Strasbourg

debate

plenary session

EU - Israel (T)

EU - Palestine (T)

Situation in Israel and Palestine, including the settlements: extracts from the debate

SOUNDBITE (English), Federica MOGHERINI, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice-President of the EC, The two-state solution remains, and I am profoundly convinced of this, the best and the only realistic chance for peace and also for security in the Holy places. This is a principle and a pragmatic position at the same time. Nobody has presented a credible alternative to the two-state so far. Many have argued against, but nobody has expressed any clear view that can substitute that objectively, realistically. Any plan that is not firmly anchored in international law, and let me add, also in the profound aspirations and interest of the people, not only of Palestine and Israel, but also in the region, would ultimately fail. 

SOUNDBITE (Spanish), Antonio L&#211;PEZ-IST&#218;RIZ WHITE (EPP, ES), Israel is a strategic partner for us and we have shared values and history. At the end of the day, the EU and Israel are both democracies trying to promote our principles and vision around the world, while respecting the to exist of all the countries. Security is an issue for Israel, look at the number of rockets coming in from Gaza. We are also pleased to see this has diminished recently, as we cannot [do much] with our statements. It always seems that we are reacting to what the Americans have to say. I think we, on behalf of the European Union, could make our own stand on this issue.

SOUNDBITE (English), Kati PIRI (S&amp;D, NL), <p>Israeli settlements are illegal under the international law and Israel has the obligation to end any settlement activity as an occupying power. Pompeo's announcement is yet another example of the Trump administration obsessive support to Prime Minister Netanyahu. This includes the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, moving the US embassy there and recognising Israel's sovereignty of the occupied Golan Heights. It seems that the Trump's administration, instead of coming up with the so-called "Deal of the Century", has decided to play escalating the conflict at the expense of Palestinians, Israelis and the international community at large. </p>

SOUNDBITE (English), Grace O&apos;SULLIVAN (Greens/EFA, IE), By recognizing the illegal settlements the Unites States has once again put itself outside the norms of international law. It has supported those that seek to ensure that any future Palestinian state would be unviable. Israeli's right to exist is beyond debate. Any country's right to illegally occupy territories seized in military conflicts is not beyond debate. There are different views I know across the Chamber in regards to this conflict, I believe is a common wish to see a lasting peaceful solution that represents both sides.

SOUNDBITE (Spanish), Javier NART (RE, ES), <p>Israel systematically violates international agreements, such as the UN resolutions, the Fourth Geneva Convention and even the EU Association Agreement, which I quote: "Shall be based on respect for human rights and democratic principles", which are a relevant part of the agreement. My question is when are we going to ask for Israel to meet this requirement and respect this agreement? Cooperation is welcomed, but just with those who keep their part of the bargain.</p>