Israel opens up tenders for controversial West Bank settlement project
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By Yolande Knell, Middle East correspondent
Israel has opened up tenders for the construction of some 1,200 settlement homes in a strategically important part of the occupied West Bank, as the government seeks to end any chance of a Palestinian state.
Plans to build on the so-called E1 area – east of Jerusalem – have long been internationally condemned. The development would effectively divide the West Bank in two and isolate East Jerusalem.
The deadline for bids is days before Israel’s October general election, making it much harder for any future government to overturn any tenders issued. Settlements are illegal under international law.
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Under international pressure, Israel held off for decades on plans to build in E1. Many of its allies and Palestinians argued these would deal a major blow to hopes of a two-state solution, effectively bisecting the West Bank.
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Despite an Israeli court challenge, the housing ministry has now issued a tender for 1,234 of the 3,401 housing units approved by the Israeli government last August.
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