Secretary of State summoned Ambassador of Israel concerning settlement decision

Press Release 289/2012
4 December 2012

The Israeli Ambassador to Finland Dan Ashbel was summoned on 4 December to talks at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs concerning Israel’s decision to build new settlements in the West Bank. Secretary of State Pertti Torstila expressed Finland’s deep disappointment at the decision and a grave concern regarding its possible implications for the peace process. The Secretary of State underlined that all settlement construction is illegal under international law and constitutes an obstacle to peace. He called on Israel to reverse the decision.

Several EU countries have summoned their Israeli ambassadors or otherwise condemned Israel’s decision. EU high representative Catherine Ashton has also issued a statement on the matter.

Further information: Director Helena Tuuri, Unit for the Middle East and North Africa, tel. +358 50 527 5409