since the 1967 war, including East Jerusalem. It is our firm view that the establishment of Israeli settlements in those territories, along with any changes in their status and demographic composition, are contrary to international law; ultimately, a policy of settlement is hard to reconcile with the principle of the inadmissibility of the acquisition of territory by war, as specified in Council resolution 242( 1967). We recall in this connection our positive votes in favour of Council resolutions 465 (1980), 478 (1980) and 497(1981), among others. 32. This is the position as laid down by international law, But we oppose the settlements policy because we also believe it is against the interests of peace. It conflicts with the interests of the Arab inhabitants of the occupied terri- tories; indeed, it ignores their rights. But it is also against the interests of Israel and its people if they want to achieve a lasting peace settlement with their Arab neighours. 33. The British Secretary of State, Mr. Francis Pym, reiterated this view in a speech to the Conference of Jewish Leaders from the Commonwealth on 30 Novem- ber last, in the course of which he appealed for a settle- ments freeze. After noting that the Israeli Government had not complied with President Reagan’s call of 1 Sep tember 1982 for such a freeze, he said: “In my view, this action does a profound disservice to the cause of peace, and I say this to you in candour. The attempt to change the status quo in the territories which Israel occupies does more than anything else to undermine confidence that Israel truly seeks a peaceful accomodation with her Arab neighbours. In saying that, I am aware, of course, of the strong feeling of many Israeli Jews that they have a historical right to 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, specifically the issue of Israeli settlements in occupied territories. The language used is formal and diplomatic, suggesting that it may be an official statement or document. The text cites international law and UN resolutions, and emphasizes the need for a lasting peace settlement. These factors suggest that the text is related to international relations, politics, and conflict resolution.

**Category**
International relations, Politics