Israeli authorities announced they have approved plans for the construction of 238 new homes in two Israeli settlements in East Jerusalem on 15 October. The decision came at a critical time for peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.
The US-led peace negotiations between Israel and the PLO have stalled after Israel decided not to extend the decision to halt construction in settlements in occupied territory. Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, has demanded suspension of the construction in the settlements to continue the peace negotiations.
– Norway considers, like the UN Security Council, that Israel's annexation of East Jerusalem is illegal, says the Norwegian Minister.
He also suggested it is unacceptable that the Israeli government in this way undermines the prospects for a two-state solution.
One of the patriotic graffiti on a wall, Israeli settlement in Jerusalem