This unilateral measure accelerates the expansion of settlement activity in the occupied territory and constitutes a serious violation of international law. United Nations Security Council resolutions 242 (1967), 338 (1973), and 2334 (2016) affirm that Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory have no legal validity and pose a major obstacle to peace.

The 2024 Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice further reaffirmed the unlawfulness of Israel’s continued presence in the occupied Palestinian territory.

Beyond the legal implications, these actions severely affect Palestinian workers and communities. Land reclassification in Area C deepens dispossession, restricts access to resources, undermines livelihoods, limits employment opportunities, and exacerbates precarious living conditions. Such developments directly threaten the right to decent work, economic dignity, and sustainable development.

In this context, ITUC-Africa urges the Israeli government to:
• Reaffirm its commitment to international law and relevant UN resolutions;
• Clearly state its non-recognition of unilateral measures altering the status of the occupied Palestinian territory;
• Support international efforts aimed at ending the occupation and dismantling illegal settlements;
• Promote a negotiated two-state solution grounded in international law and mutual security.

As representatives of African workers, we believe peace, justice, and respect for international law are essential to global stability.

Issued from Lome, Togo on the 3rd of March 2026

Akhator Joel ODIGIE
General Secretary, ITUC-AFRICA.