Israel is facing increasing international condemnation over its plan to annex parts of the Occupied West Bank. On Wednesday, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called on Israel to abandon its plan.

Secretary-General António Guterres: “If implemented, annexation would constitute the most serious violation of international law, grievously harm the prospect of a two-state solution and undercut the possibilities of a renewal of negotiations. I call on the Israeli government to abandon its annexation plans.”

Meanwhile, seven European nations have issued a joint statement saying annexation would violate international law and weaken efforts to advance regional peace. Belgium, Britain, Estonia, France, Germany, Ireland and Norway signed the statement.