International Condemnation Mounts Over Israeli West Bank Policies

Nearly 20 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Brazil, France, and Spain, have strongly condemned recent Israeli measures in the West Bank, labeling them as a deliberate attempt to alter the status quo and pursue de facto annexation. The coordinated statement, released on Monday, February 23, 2026, reflects growing international concern over escalating tensions and the viability of a two-state solution.

Expanding Control and Land Registration

The condemnation follows a series of Israeli actions aimed at increasing control over the West Bank, territory occupied since 1967. These measures include the opening of a land registration process in the West Bank – a first since 1967 – and the designation of lands as so-called “state land” [Source: Times of Israel]. Eight Muslim countries, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, issued a joint statement specifically criticizing this land registration process.

Concerns Over Palestinian State Viability

Foreign ministers from the condemning nations asserted that these actions constitute a “deliberate and direct attack on the viability of the Palestinian state and the implementation of the two-state solution.” They urged the Israeli government to immediately reverse these decisions and adhere to its international obligations [Source: Al Arabiya].

Broad International Opposition

The signatories include Scandinavian countries, Ireland, Portugal, Egypt, Turkey, Indonesia, and organizations such as the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, which is based in Saudi Arabia [Source: Aawsat]. This follows earlier criticism from 85 United Nations member states on February 17th regarding the Israeli measures.

Escalating Colonization

Colonization in the West Bank has intensified under the current Israeli government, particularly since the start of the war in Gaza on October 7, 2023. Over half a million Israelis currently reside in settlements in the West Bank, excluding East Jerusalem, while the area is also home to approximately 3 million Palestinians. The United Nations considers these settlements illegal under international law.

Saudi Arabia’s Strong Stance

Saudi Arabia has been particularly vocal in its condemnation, telling the UN Security Council that Israel’s “unlawful coercive measures” in the occupied West Bank amount to an attempt to “assassinate Palestinian state” [Source: Arab News].