Israel’s decision to grab nearly 1,000 acres of Palestinian land to build settlements was condemned by David Cameron yesterday as ‘utterly deplorable’. Israel announced on Sunday that an area of the West Bank, near existing settlements at Etzion, south of Bethlehem, has been designated as ‘state land’ which means it can be used for homes for Israelis. The move came days after an indefinite ceasefire brought an end to weeks of conflict in Gaza during which more than 2,100 Palestinians and 73 Israelis were killed. Scroll down for video Condemned: David Cameron used unusually strong language to condemn Israel's land grab
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Israeli military declares 'state land, on instructions of the political echelon'
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But army chiefs give no reason for the land appropriation decision
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U.S. State Dept. brands move 'counterproductive' and demands U-turn
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Israel Radio says step taken after killing of three Jewish teens by Hamas
Mr Cameron has faced criticism over his response to the crisis, in which he has staunchly backed Israel’s right to defend itself in the face of constant rocket attacks from @placeholder.