ALBAWABA - Israel's recent approval of a settlement expansion plan in the occupied Golan Heights has been sharply condemned by the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which calls it an attack against Syrian sovereignty and a blatant breach of international law.
The Israeli government's move was described by Qatar in a statement issued Sunday night as "a new chapter in the ongoing series of Israeli violations on Syrian territory." In order to force Israel to stop its settlement activities, follow international agreements, and respect Syrian sovereignty, the ministry urged the international community to act immediately.
Reiterating its commitment to regional and international efforts to bring about peace and security in the region, Qatar underlined its steadfast support for Syria's unity, independence, and territorial integrity.
The censure comes after Israel's cabinet unanimously approved a $11 million proposal to double the number of people living in settlements inside the occupied Golan Heights. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled the plan, which calls for building a new student community to house the influx of settlers as well as investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, and education.
The Israeli government defended the action in an official statement, citing "security developments and a new front with Syria." The idea coincides with increased regional tensions brought on by Israeli military actions in Syria.
In an appeal for international cooperation to confront what it described as Israel's "opportunistic schemes," Qatar reiterated its need for a diplomatic solution to bring peace and stability back to Syria.
