Foreign Minister Penny Wong has joined a coalition of Western nations in condemning Israel's approval of a new settlement in the E1 area of the West Bank. The joint statement, signed by Australia and 20 other countries, called the plan 'unacceptable and a violation of international law', urging Israel to reverse its decision. Wong warned that the settlement would undermine prospects for peace and security in the region, and further damage Australia's already strained relationship with Israel. The move has sparked a sharp response from Israeli leaders, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticizing Australia's stance and escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries.