Israel opens up tenders for controversial West Bank settlement project
Summary
Israel has started the process to build about 1,200 new homes in a disputed area of the West Bank known as E1, near East Jerusalem. This project could separate parts of the West Bank and make it harder to create a future Palestinian state.Key Facts
- Israel opened tenders to build 1,234 homes in the E1 area, part of a larger plan for 3,401 homes approved last August.
- E1 is a strategic area east of Jerusalem that could divide the West Bank into two separate parts.
- Building in E1 is widely opposed internationally because it threatens the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.
- The deadline for construction bids is October 19, just before Israel's general election on October 27.
- The current Israeli government supports the settlement expansion, aiming to reduce chances for a Palestinian state.
- East Jerusalem was taken by Israel in 1967 and later annexed in 1980, a move not recognized by most countries.
- About 700,000 Israeli settlers live in West Bank settlements, while around 3.3 million Palestinians live nearby.
- Peace groups and Palestinians have legally challenged the E1 building plans, warning they hurt peace prospects.
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