Core Viewpoint - A joint statement from over twenty foreign ministers and the EU strongly condemns Israel's approval of a plan to build over 3,400 settlement homes in the "E1 area" of the West Bank, labeling it unacceptable and a violation of international law [1] Group 1 - The joint statement was signed by 21 countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada, and France, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the plan [1] - The statement emphasizes that the plan will not benefit the Israeli people and could potentially undermine security, escalate violence, and move further away from peace [1] - The UK Foreign Office confirmed it summoned the Israeli ambassador to express protest against the plan, stating that its implementation would openly violate international law [1] Group 2 - The Israeli Defense Ministry's Civil Administration High Planning Committee approved the controversial housing construction plan on August 20, which involves building 3,401 settlement homes between Ma'ale Adumim and the "E1 area" east of Jerusalem [1]