Amman, Feb 9 (Petra) – The European Union on Monday condemned new measures taken by Israel to strengthen its control over the West Bank and pave the way for the construction of more settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.

EU spokesperson Anouar El Anouni told journalists that the measures were "another step in the wrong direction," stressing that the bloc does not recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967.

El Anouni added that, "in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions, the EU reiterates that annexation is illegal under international law." He warned that "any concrete step taken in this direction constitutes a violation of international law." //Petra// AF