Israel starts E1 construction in occupied East Jerusalem; UN, OIC and Europe condemn

East Jerusalem — Israel has moved forward with large-scale construction in the E1 area east of occupied East Jerusalem despite international opposition. The Israeli Ministry of Construction and Housing issued tenders for 1,234 housing units, part of a wider plan of 3,401 homes in E1.
Palestinian and international critics warn that major settlement-building in E1 would sever geographic continuity between northern and southern parts of the occupied West Bank, undermining the prospects for a contiguous Palestinian state and a two-state solution. UN Secretary‑General António Guterres expressed deep concern about the development.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry urged international construction firms not to participate in the E1 tenders, warning that involvement could raise serious international law issues. OIC Secretary‑General Hissein Brahim Taha strongly condemned the tendering. In a joint statement, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Canada and Norway called the tenders for more than 1,200 units “unacceptable,” saying the move violates the geographical continuity of Palestinian areas.