Israel has ignited fresh controversy with a new construction tender for 3,401 housing units in the E1 area of the West Bank, a project critics warn could fragment Palestinian territories. Documents released this week show bids are due by March 16, with construction potentially starting by mid-2026.
Why It Matters
The E1 zone east of Jerusalem is geopolitically sensitive – opponents say expanding settlements here would physically divide the northern and southern West Bank. 🌐 This comes amid heightened tensions in the region following recent diplomatic shifts.
What’s Next?
Palestinian officials have already condemned the move, calling it a 'death blow' to peace efforts. Meanwhile, international responses are brewing, with multiple UN members expected to address the issue this month. Construction timelines suggest bulldozers could roll in as early as August 2026 if bids proceed smoothly.
💡 Pro tip: The scale? These 3,400+ units would house over 15,000 people – equivalent to building a new city the size of Springfield from The Simpsons in contested territory.
