Group 1 - The joint statement from foreign ministers of 22 countries, including the UK, France, and Italy, condemns Israel's approval of the construction of over 3,400 settlement homes in the "E1 area" of the West Bank as unacceptable and a violation of international law [3] - The statement emphasizes that the plan does not benefit the Israeli people and could undermine security, leading to increased violence and instability, moving further away from peace [3] - The UK Foreign Office summoned the Israeli ambassador in response to the approval of the settlement housing plan in the "E1 area" [4] Group 2 - The Israeli Civil Administration's High Planning Committee approved a controversial housing construction plan for 3,401 settlement homes between Ma'ale Adumim and the "E1 area" east of Jerusalem, which has faced significant international criticism [4]

Core Viewpoint - A joint statement from foreign ministers of 22 countries, including the UK, France, and Italy, strongly condemns Israel's approval of a plan to build over 3,400 settlement homes in the E1 area of the West Bank, deeming it unacceptable and a violation of international law [1] Group 1 - The joint statement emphasizes that the Israeli government's decision does not benefit the Israeli people and could undermine security, incite more violence and instability, and move peace further away [1] - The statement calls for the immediate cancellation of the settlement construction plan and adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 2334, which demands a halt to settlement activities [1] - The UK Foreign Office summoned the Israeli ambassador to express its disapproval of the settlement housing plan approved by the Israeli authorities [1] Group 2 - The Israeli Civil Administration's High Planning Committee approved the controversial housing construction plan on December 20, which involves building 3,401 settlement homes in the E1 area between Ma'ale Adumim and East Jerusalem [1]