White House and UK raise concerns about Israel’s plan to increase control over West Bank

A White House official has confirmed Donald Trump’s opposition to Israel’s moves to expand control over the West Bank, after the security cabinet  approved plans that pave the way for more settlements.

In measures announced on Sunday Israelis were offered the prospect of  buying West Bank land directly, and  Israeli control over areas where the Palestinian Authority exercises power are to be extended.

The UK called the Israeli cabinet’s decision “wholly unacceptable” and demanded its reversal, warning it violates international law.

“The UK strongly condemns the Israeli security cabinet’s decision yesterday to expand Israeli control over the West Bank, ” a statement said.

“Any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unacceptable and would be inconsistent with international law. We call on Israel to reverse these decisions immediately.”

While a White House official said that “a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration’s goal to achieve peace in the region.”

The UN secretary-general, António Guterres,  also expressed grave concern, saying the changes threaten prospects for a two-state solution and are “destabilising.”

More than 500,000 Israelis currently live in West Bank settlements, which are illegal under international law.

Around three million Palestinians reside in the territory, which Israel has occupied since 1967.

Israeli officials say the moves aim to “deepen our roots” and reject a Palestinian state.

The Palestinian presidency called the measures an attempt to annex the occupied territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet Trump in the US on Wednesday.