Finland summoned the Israeli ambassador on Thursday to express grave concerns over Israel’s controversial plans to occupy Gaza City and proceed with the E1 settlement project in the occupied West Bank.
“The Ministry for Foreign Affairs summoned the Israeli ambassador to convey Finland’s deep concern regarding Israel’s intention to take over Gaza City and advance the E1 settlement project,” the Finnish ministry said on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
Finland also called for the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, in accordance with international law.
Earlier this month, Israel’s Security Cabinet approved plans to occupy Gaza City, which will displace around 1 million Palestinians to the south of the Gaza Strip. The city is to be besieged and subsequently occupied after heavy military assaults.
Amid global criticism, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich gave the green light for the construction of 3,401 settler units in Ma’ale Adumim, east of Jerusalem, along with 3,515 additional units in nearby areas.
The E1 settlement project aims to divide the West Bank into two parts, isolating East Jerusalem and cutting off vital connections between northern and southern cities.
Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023, Israel’s military actions have resulted in the deaths of over 62,000 Palestinians in Gaza, pushing the enclave to the brink of famine.
