A barrier separating the Israeli settlement of Pisgat Zeev (left) from the eastern part of Jerusalem is pictured on June 17, 2023. (PHOTO / AFP)

UNITED NATIONS — UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged the Israeli government to "immediately and completely" end all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, a UN spokesman said.

Guterres was deeply troubled by Sunday's decision by the Israeli government to amend settlement planning procedures, said Farhan Haq, deputy spokesperson for the UN chief, in a statement.

The expansion of these illegal settlements is a significant driver of tensions and violence and deepens humanitarian needs, Haq said

Haq noted that the changes can be expected to expedite the advancement of Israeli settlement plans in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

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Guterres was also deeply alarmed by the anticipated advancement next week of over 4,000 settlement housing units by Israeli planning authorities, Haq said.

"The secretary-general reiterates that settlements are a flagrant violation of international law," said the spokesman. "They are a major obstacle to the realization of a viable two-state solution and a just, lasting and comprehensive peace."

The expansion of these illegal settlements is a significant driver of tensions and violence and deepens humanitarian needs, he said.

It further entrenches Israel's occupation of Palestinian territory, encroaches on Palestinian land and natural resources, hampers the free movement of the Palestinian population, and undermines the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination and sovereignty, said Haq.

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"The secretary-general urges the government of Israel to halt and reverse such decisions and to immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory and to fully respect its legal obligations in that regard," he said.