Advertisement

Aust says Israel land grab 'unhelpful'

Australia has criticised Israel's decision to seize a massive swathe of West Bank land, labelling it "unhelpful" so soon after the Gaza war and a threat to future peace.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has expressed Australia's deep concern to her counterpart, Avigdor Lieberman, over Israel's declaration of 1000 acres (405ha) south of Bethlehem as state land.

The controversial land grab is the largest by Israel in years and paves the way for further settlement construction in the occupied West Bank, which is deemed illegal by the United Nations.

The United States and other Western countries have already urged Israel to reverse its decision.

Ms Bishop said the decision undermined the prospects for a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine existing side by side within recognised borders, a goal Australia shared with many nations.

"Australia calls on Israel to reconsider the decision," Ms Bishop said in a statement.

"The announcement is unhelpful so soon after the Gaza conflict."

The priority for Israel and Palestine should be working through the terms of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, she added.

Labor has already expressed concern about the land seizure and demanded Israel offer an "immediate explanation".

Talks are under way for Mr Lieberman, Israel's nationalist foreign minister, to visit Australia.

Ms Bishop said her counterpart expressed a "strong desire" to visit Australia, and she looked forward to welcoming him at the earliest opportunity.