UN Chief Raises Alarm Over Israeli Measures in West Bank

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed grave concern over reports that Israel’s security cabinet has authorized a series of administrative and enforcement measures in Areas A and B of the occupied West Bank, warning that such steps further undermine prospects for a two-State solution.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Secretary-General said the current trajectory on the ground, including the newly authorized measures, is eroding the viability of a negotiated settlement between Israelis and Palestinians.

Guterres reiterated the long-standing UN position that all Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, lack legal validity and constitute a flagrant violation of international law, including relevant United Nations resolutions. He stressed that the associated settlement regime and infrastructure are equally unlawful.

The UN chief warned that Israel’s continued presence and actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory are not only destabilizing but also unlawful, as affirmed by the International Court of Justice.

Calling for de-escalation, Guterres urged Israel to reverse the reported measures and appealed to all parties to uphold international law and preserve the only viable path to lasting peace — a negotiated two-State solution in line with Security Council resolutions.

The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the occupied West Bank, raising international concern over the deteriorating political and security situation and the diminishing prospects for renewed peace talks.