Every Israeli and Palestinian has the right to live in peace and security, and our national goal remains for both sides to work for sustainable peace and a two-state solution, with Jerusalem as a shared capital of both states. A long term political settlement is the only way to resolve the conflict so that all people in the region can live safely.
The Government has always been clear on its position with regards to Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs). These settlements are illegal under international law, hindering peace and making the desired two-state solution more difficult to achieve. Ministers have consistently urged Israeli authorities to stop settlement building and remove illegal outposts. Such action is required under international law and necessary under Israel’s obligations.
The Israeli demolitions of Palestinian-owned properties in the West Bank cause unnecessary hardship to ordinary Palestinians. Those demolitions, in all but the most exceptional cases, contravene International Human Law. The Government raises this issue with the Israeli Government on a regular basis.