Geneva conference denounces settlement projects

The summary resolution of the conference of High Contracting Parties to the Fourth Geneva Convention has denounced the continued practice of settlement expansion in occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), expresseing deep concern over the frequency of international humanitarian law violations by the Israeli state.

The summary additionally called for Israel to desist from any activity which alters the demographic balance in the West Bank and East the occupied al-Quds ('Jerusalem').

According to Al Ray Palestinian News Agency, the resolution expressed apprehension over the effect of continued occupation of Palestinian lands and noted that the construction of the separation barrier, insofar as it deviates from the Green Line, and the continued closure of the Gaza Strip, are in violation of international law.

The resolution emphasized that Israel is obligated "to administer the Occupied Palestinian Territory in a way which fully takes into account the needs of the civilian population while safeguarding its own security, and notably preserve its demographic characteristics."