Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned Israel's latest move to expand illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories, warning that such actions undermine the possibility of a two-state solution. The Kingdom's Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the world to uphold its legal and moral responsibilities and protect the rights of the Palestinian people.

In a formal statement, the ministry said Israel's settlement construction near Jerusalem and its rejection of a sovereign Palestinian state violate international law and the right of Palestinians to self-determination. The Kingdom stressed that these policies obstruct peace efforts and threaten regional stability.

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) also denounced Israel's approval to build 3,400 new housing units in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. The OIC emphasized that all settlement activities are illegal, deepen occupation, and must be stopped immediately.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that work would soon begin on a long-delayed settlement project, saying it would "bury" the idea of Palestinian statehood. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar reportedly vowed that Israel "will not allow" the two-state solution to be implemented.

International reaction is growing. France and Canada have announced intentions to recognize Palestine next month, while Britain warned it could follow if Israel fails to agree to a ceasefire with Hamas and improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza.

Saudi Arabia renewed its firm rejection of Israel's settlement expansion, forced displacement, and annexation plans, urging the UN Security Council and global powers to take immediate action and hold Israel accountable for violations against the Palestinian people.

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