Mladenov stated that over the past year, zionist authorities advanced controversial settlement plans that had been frozen for years.

“The total number of units advanced in 2020 are on par with 2019 numbers, despite an eight-month hiatus this year. Some 50 per cent of them are deep in the West Bank, in areas crucial for the contiguity and viability of a future Palestinian State,” Mladenov said.

“In the strategic location of E1, plans for some 3,500 units were advanced after an eight-year delay. If implemented, the E1 plan would sever the connection between the northern and southern West Bank. Similarly, a tender was issued for some 1,200 units establishing a new settlement in Givat Hamatos threatening to further disconnect East Jerusalem from Bethlehem and the southern West Bank. If either project moves forward it would significantly undermine the establishment of a viable and contiguous Palestinian State as part of a negotiated two-State solution.”

Underscoring that israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, constitute a flagrant violation of United Nations resolutions and international law, Mladenov noted that settlements entrench israel’s occupation and undermine the prospect of achieving a two-State solution.

Mladenov called on the zionist regime to cease the advancement of all settlement activity.

“The continued demolition and seizure of Palestinian structures, notably humanitarian projects and schools, is deeply concerning. I call on Israeli authorities to end the demolition of Palestinian property and the displacement and eviction of Palestinians and to approve plans that would enable these communities to build legally and address their development needs.”

“The continuing violence, attacks against civilians, and incitement to violence are unacceptable. All perpetrators of violence must be held accountable. I am appalled that children continue to be victims – with a particularly troubling series of incidents over the past month in the OPT. Children should not be the target of violence or put in harm’s way,” Mladenov added. (ILKHA)