France has called on the European Union to restrict trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said in an interview that he had again urged European countries this week to move forward on the issue.
Barrot also condemned what he described as an unprecedented escalation in violence by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank.
He said the violence undermined the dignity of Palestinians, Israel’s security, and the prospects for a two-state solution.
Meanwhile, a pro-Palestinian demonstration was held at Châtelet Square in Paris following a call by the Europa Palestine Association. The demonstrators later marched toward Place de la Bourse.
Protesters carried Palestinian flags and placards reading “Boycott Israel” and “Freedom for Palestinians.”
They also called on the French government to impose sanctions on Israel.
