Ramallah (IINA) : The Japanese government on Tuesday deeply deplored Israel’s approval of plans to construct housing units in West Bank settlements despite repeated calls from the international community, including Japan, for freezing such activities.

Foreign Press Secretary Norio Maruyama said in a press statement that according to information Israel has approved plans to construct housing units in settlements in the West Bank, thereby continuing its settlement activities.

He said settlement activities are in violation of international law and Japan has repeatedly called on Israel to fully freeze settlement activities.

“The government of Japan once again strongly urges the government of Israel to desist from implementing its construction plans that are undermining the viability of a two-state solution,” Maruyama said.