Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on Israel’s decision to expand control in the West Bank

News story | Date: 11/02/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

'Norway condemns the decision made by the Israeli security cabinet to expand Israel's control over the occupied West Bank', said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.

'A unilateral Israeli decision aimed at changing the status of these areas is not valid under international law. The decision is contrary to Israel's obligations under international law, and it undermines the possibility of a peaceful solution and a Palestinian state. The decision will make life even more unbearable for the Palestinians. We fear that Israel's actions may lead to more unrest and violence - in Palestine, Israel, and the rest of the Middle East.

'We urge the Israeli authorities to respect previous agreements made with the Palestinians and to refrain from actions that violate international law', said Eide.