US “Deeply Concerned” over Approval of 181 Settlements in East Jerusalem

Washington, 04 Safar 1438/03 November 2016 (MINA) – The US expressed deep concern Wednesday over Israel’s authorization of 181 housing settlements and five community centers that are to be constructed in East Jerusalem.

“We believe (this) is corrosive to the cause of peace,”KUNA quoted State Department Spokesperson John Kirby as telling reporters.

“These decisions by Israeli authorities are just the latest examples of what appear to be a steady and systematic acceleration of Israeli settlement activity.”

Kirby highlighted reports of 80 Palestinian structures demolished in the West Bank of East Jerusalem and a potentially new settlement outpost in the North Jordan Valley.

“These actions risk entrenching a one-state reality, and raise serious questions about Israel’s ultimate commitment to a peaceful negotiated settlement to Palestinians,” he reiterated. (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)