A diplomatic delegation representing the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Finland, Belgium, Sweden, Canada, and Norway visited the village of Burqa near Ramallah today. The delegation condemned the demolition of buildings funded by donors, including the recently demolished school in the Ein Samiya community. The visit took place amid the escalating violence by settlers following the demolition of structures by Israeli authorities as part of their humanitarian support. Ireland and Denmark also support this press release.
During the visit, the diplomatic delegation listened to the local community in Burqa, where representatives of the community discussed the continuous intimidation and violence they face from settlers. The diplomats witnessed the impact of the recent displacement of the Ras Al-Tin community due to settler attacks, noting the intensified attacks following the establishment of an illegal settlement near the Palestinian community.
Expressing concern over the escalating settler violence, the delegation highlighted the resulting displacement of over 400 Palestinians from their homes since the beginning of the year due to both violence and Israeli demolition policies. These actions have led to several injuries among Palestinian residents throughout the West Bank, including the killing of 19-year-old Qassem Matar earlier this month in Burqa.
Despite acknowledging some measures taken by Israeli authorities to address the violence, such as arrests, the diplomatic delegation strongly condemned settler violence. They urged Israel, as an occupying power, to take further action to hold those who commit violence against Palestinians accountable and to prevent such acts. The delegation emphasized the importance of refraining from forced displacement policies, in line with international humanitarian law, particularly Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. They also reiterated their opposition to all settlements, which are considered illegal under international law, fueling settler violence and undermining the prospects for a two-state solution and lasting peace.
The diplomats strongly condemned the demolition of the Ein Samiya school, funded by donor countries as humanitarian assistance. They highlighted Israel's violation of international humanitarian law and called on Israel to cease all demolition and confiscation activities. The delegation urged Israel to ensure secure access for humanitarian organizations in the occupied West Bank without any obstacles. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting all legitimate Palestinian rights and assisting Palestinian residents in Area "C". The donor countries called on Israel to compensate or replace previously funded humanitarian equipment that was confiscated or destroyed.
The aforementioned delegation condemns the killing of both Palestinians and Israelis, while emphasizing the rising rate of killings this year across the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
