🏗️ Big move this Tuesday: on Jan 6, 2026, the Israeli government issued a construction tender for the E1 settlement area east of Jerusalem – 3,401 housing units up for grabs! According to government documents, developers have until March 16 to submit bids, and work could kick off within months.
E1 isn't just another neighborhood. Located between Jerusalem and the Maale Adumim settlement, critics worry this project could physically split the West Bank in two, making travel tough for Palestinian residents and complicating hopes for a future Palestinian state. "This tender risks cutting off the northern and southern parts of the West Bank," warns a regional planner.
Supporters argue Israel faces a housing crunch and view E1 as a strategic buffer around Jerusalem. They say new homes will ease overcrowding and strengthen security. But international observers and Palestinian leaders have slammed the move, saying it undermines peace efforts and international law.
With the bidding deadline set for March 16, all eyes will be on which developers step up – and whether global pressure will sway planning. For now, E1 remains one of the most contested spots in the Middle East, a symbol of the larger Israeli-Palestinian debate. ⚖️
Stay tuned as reactions from Jerusalem to Ramallah pour in. This story is just heating up! 🔥
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
