France rejects Netanyahu's vow to maintain Jerusalem occupation

Israeli forces captured East Jerusalem from Jordanian control in 1967, annexing it and declaring the city the "undivided, eternal capital of Israel," despite protests from most of the international community.

In response to Netanyahu's Thursday remarks, French Foreign Ministry spokesperson Frederic Desagneaux said, "The declaration made by the Israeli prime minister yesterday in Jerusalem prejudices the final status agreement," according to Agence-France Presse.

Netanyahu insisted on Thursday that all of Jerusalem will forever remain under Israeli control. He made the comments during a speech marking the anniversary of the occupation of the eastern half of the Palestinian capital.

"United Jerusalem is Israel's capital. Jerusalem was always ours and will always be ours. It will never again be partitioned and divided," Netanyahu said at the state ceremony.

The French official noted that the previously agreed-upon Road Map peace plan demands that both sides negotiate an agreement on Jerusalem. "In France's eyes, Jerusalem should, within the framework of a negotiated peace deal, become the capital of two states," Desagneaux said.

"Actions such as the destruction of Palestinian homes or the transformation of Arab districts risk provoking an escalation in violence. They are unacceptable and contrary to international law," he added.

"In broad terms, France condemns the ongoing settlement, including in East Jerusalem. We reiterate the need for a freeze on colonization activities, including those linked to natural population growth," he said.

Meanwhile on Thursday, at least 200 Palestinians demonstrated near Damascus Gate in protest of the holiday.

Israeli news sources reported that activists held signs reading "Jerusalem - not a celebration for everyone" and "Building in the west - demolishing in the east." Other demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and called Jerusalem's so-called reunification a fantasy.

"The city is not united. East Jerusalem had been annexed by Israel against the will of its residents, who have since been suffering discrimination, neglect and abuse in all walks of life," said a statement to Ma'an from the demonstration's organizers, a coalition of East Jerusalem neighborhood committees and residents.