Palestinian Vice President Welcomes European Council's Stance on Settlement Expansion

Palestinian Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the European Council's recent stance on halting settlement expansion, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported. 

He expressed appreciation for the European Council's positions, which included withdrawing construction tenders for the 'E1 area', releasing Palestinian withheld clearance revenues, and ensuring humanitarian aid delivery to the Gaza Strip, the Palestinian News and Information Agency (WAFA) said in a statement.

In a post on X, al-Sheikh said the European stance upholds international law and Palestinian rights. He emphasized the need to translate these positions into practical steps to end the occupation and realize an independent Palestinian state based on the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Al-Sheikh also thanked Europe for its ongoing support for the Palestinian people and the Palestinian Authority, including reform efforts and strengthening national institutions. This support, he stressed, contributes to stability and fulfilling Palestinian aspirations.

The Palestinian Authority has long sought international support to pressure Israel to end its occupation. The European Union has been a key player in this effort, providing significant financial and diplomatic backing to the Palestinians.

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a longstanding issue, with the Palestinians seeking an independent state in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. The conflict has led to numerous diplomatic efforts, but a lasting resolution remains elusive.