A U.S. State Department spokesperson told reporter Barak Ravid that Washington does not support Israel annexing the West Bank. This comes as the statements were made after the publication of a tender for the E1 settlement project. The spokesperson said U.S. President Donald Trump has clearly stated the country’s position.

The spokesperson added: “Stability in the West Bank helps Israel’s security,” and emphasized that this is consistent with the government’s goal of achieving peace in the region. The remarks are being made while Israel faces international criticism over the expansion of settlements and the E1 project.