Secretary-General ‘Deeply Regrets’ Adoption of ‘Regularization Bill’, Warning of Far-reaching Consequences for Israel

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General deeply regrets the adoption of the so-called “Regularisation bill” on 6 February by the Knesset.  This bill is in contravention of international law and will have far-reaching legal consequences for Israel.  It reportedly provides immunity to settlements and outposts in the occupied West Bank that were built on privately-owned Palestinian land.

The Secretary-General insists on the need to avoid any actions that would derail the two-State solution.  All core issues should be resolved between the parties through direct negotiations on the basis of relevant Security Council resolutions and mutual agreements.  The United Nations stands ready to support this process.