David Lammy has strongly criticised Israel's decision to approve the E1 settlement project in the West Bank, warning that it would effectively split a potential Palestinian state and undermine the possibility of a two-state solution. The project, which has faced international opposition for over two decades, was recently approved by an Israeli defence ministry committee and would see the construction of around 3,400 homes east of Jerusalem. Israeli officials, including far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have welcomed the move, arguing it diminishes the likelihood of a Palestinian state. The United Kingdom has reiterated its opposition to the settlement plan, with Lammy calling for its reversal and warning of its implications for international law and regional peace.