On Monday, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen expressed strong opposition to the Israeli government's plans to tighten control over settlement areas in the West Bank and potentially annex them into Israel. Valtonen emphasized that such actions are against international law and highlighted that Finland, along with the European Union, stands firmly against these measures. Her statements were made during a press conference following her recent visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, where she engaged with various civil society organizations.

During her visit, Valtonen met with organizations concerned about the impact of increasing settlement construction and violence in the West Bank. She noted that these activities are making daily life more challenging for Palestinians, particularly due to the increased number of checkpoints that Palestinians must navigate. Valtonen's insights reveal the growing tensions in the region, exacerbated by Israeli policies that undermine the feasibility of a two-state solution, which is supported by Finland and the EU.

Valtonen's remarks reflect Finland's significant position within EU foreign policy discussions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By calling attention to these issues, she highlights not only Finland's diplomatic stance but also the broader implications of Israel's actions on regional stability and peace efforts. The situation remains complex and the EU's collective approach, as voiced by leaders like Valtonen, is crucial to fostering dialogue and addressing humanitarian concerns in the conflict-affected areas.