Norway deplored Wednesday the expansion of Israeli settlement in East Jerusalem, saying it was illegal and a violation of international law, it said in a statement sent to Saudi Gazette. “Norway deplores the announcement by the Israeli authorities of an expansion of the Har Homa settlement in East Jerusalem,” the statement quoted Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Garh Store as saying. “The building of settlements on occupied land is illegal, a violation of international law and the most serious obstacle to the prospects of a two-state solution.” “The announcement of new settlements undermines the international community's endeavors to promote a resumption of peace negotiations,” Store said. On April 4, the Israeli authorities announced tenders for the construction of 872 new housing units in the Har Horma settlement, 632 of which are to be built on the underdeveloped ridge to the south and east of Har Horma, the statement said. It said that the settlement will surround East Jerusalem and will cut off Bethlemen, undermining the possibility of a two-state solution.
