Israel has advanced plans for more than 1,200 new housing units in the E1 area of the occupied West Bank, drawing sharp international criticism, according to CNN.
The Israeli Housing Ministry has invited construction bids for the project, which critics say could divide the West Bank and separate East Jerusalem from Palestinian territory. The bids are due shortly before Israel’s October elections.
Settlement expansion has accelerated under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government despite opposition from several Western nations.
Britain condemned the move as damaging to prospects for a two-state solution, while Israel rejected the criticism. Palestinian officials and Egypt also called for the plans to be stopped.
Peace Now, an Israeli settlement watchdog, accused the government of pursuing policies that could prolong the conflict. Most of the international community considers Israeli settlements in the West Bank illegal under international law.
Related Tweet:
Statement | The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and 7 Arab and Islamic countries condemn the declared Israeli rejection of the Road Map for completing the implementation of US President Trump’s Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza conflict
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Qatar (@MofaQatar_EN) August 16, 2026
Doha | 16 August 2026… pic.twitter.com/fKOKHlwvJ0
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