"Continuing settlement activity by Israel does risk further inflaming an already volatile situation in the region. This is a provocation and we have consistently encouraged both sides to refrain from provocative acts."
US State Department Spokesman in response to Israeli Housing Ministry to publish tenders for 708 houses in settlements (April 5, 2001).
"In our view, to have serious negotiations, they must be based on a sense of partnership, not unilateral actions that we do not believe will help resolve the Israeli-Palestinian difference. In this respect, we also made clear [to Israeli foreign minister Ariel Sharon] that we're opposed to unilateral acts by Israel, including and especially settlement activity. That is why we are particularly concerned about not only a unilateral declaration of Palestinian statehood, but also these Israeli activities that could predetermine and prejudge issues reserved for permanent status negotiations. They make it very difficult to pursue peace."
U.S. State Department daily press briefing conducted by State Department Spokesperson, James Rubin (April 9, 1999)
"Our position has always been that we believe that settlement activity is a complicating factor in our efforts to promote a negotiated settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and dispute, and that view has not changed. We think settlements are counterproductive, they are unhelpful, and that has not changed.
Statement by US State Department Spokesperson (October 7, 1997)
"US diplomatic efforts have focused on the need for a halt in "unhelpful unilateral acts" .... that prejudge issues reserved for final-status negotiations."
Secretary Madeline Albright before the National Council Club (August 6, 1997)
"Why shouldn't they settle in the Occupied Territories? Because that's de facto annexation. That is changing the fact and circumstances on the ground….."
Secretary of State James Baker during an interview with George Will on ABC-TV in response to the question of why shouldn't Israel be allowed to settle immigrants in the West Bank (May 17, 1991)
"Further settlement activity is in no way necessary for the security of Israel, and only diminishes the confidence of the Arabs that a final outcome can be freely and fairly negotiated."
US President Ronald Reagan (September 1, 1983)
"As I've stated previously, the most significant action demonstrating Israel's good faith would be settlements freeze."
President Reagan meeting with Jewish Leaders (February 2, 1983)