Israel: European countries "concerned" over annexation

By Ahmet Gurhan Kartal

LONDON (AA) – Five European countries on Thursday expressed their “deep concern” over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent remarks of possible annexation of some parts of occupied West Bank if he was reelected.

France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom are “deeply concerned about the announcement of a possible annexation of areas in the West Bank, particularly the Jordan valley and the northern shore of the Dead Sea,” a joint statement said

“This would, if implemented, constitute a serious breach of international law,” the statement added.

“France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom will continue to call on all parties to refrain from actions in contravention of international law that would imperil the viability of a two-state solution, based on the 1967 lines, and make it harder to achieve a just and lasting peace.”

It also said the five countries are “clear about Israel’s right to security and strongly condemn recent attacks on Israel from Gaza.”

Earlier this week, Netanyahu promised during an electoral rally that if he wins general elections, which takes place in Sept. 17, he would annex parts of occupied lands in the West Bank including north of the Dead Sea and Jordan Valley.

Netanyahu's announcement caused a wide range of international condemnations by Arab states, Islamic states and many other countries.

Netanyahu hopes to win the upcoming elections to avoid being prosecuted over corruption cases.