Finland's Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen has publicly stated the country's opposition to Israel's plans to annex areas of the West Bank, which she described as actions contrary to international law. She highlighted that such annexations involve illegally acquiring foreign territory, a stance that Finland has made clear in various international forums. Valtonen's comments come amid increasing concern over Israel's accelerated settlement activities, which have intensified since the government announced plans to declare parts of the West Bank as state land for the first time since 1967.

The growing settlements in the West Bank have drawn strong criticism from not only Finland but also various international organizations. Valtonen noted that Palestinian civil organizations have raised alarms about the escalation of violence and settlement expansion happening under the radar of the international community. This situation has led to challenges for daily life for many Palestinians, who are now facing increased restrictions and checkpoints that further complicate their mobility and access to resources.

Finland's condemnation of these actions reflects its broader foreign policy stance, which emphasizes the importance of addressing human rights issues and adhering to international norms in conflict zones. Valtonen's statements underscore the urgency for the international community to take notice of the deteriorating conditions in the West Bank as Israeli pressures continue to mount against Palestinian populations.