Foreign ministers condemn Israel's settlement plans in joint statement

A group of foreign ministers from EU countries, in addition to the UK and Australia, have condemned Israel's plans to construct settlements east of Jerusalem, in what is known as the E1 area.

In a joint statement, they called the decision "unacceptable and in violation of international law". They urged the Israeli government to stop the construction of settlements, saying the move "fuels further violence and instability", and brings the region "further away from peace".