Israel opens bids for sensitive E1 West Bank settlement ahead of elections
Israel has issued tenders for about 1,234 homes in the E1 area between East Jerusalem and Maale Adumim, part of a plan to expand settlements that would bisect the West Bank and jeopardize a Palestinian state. The 12 sq km development covers 1,234 of 3,401 units approved last August; bids close on 19 October, just before the 27 October elections, making it harder for a future government to cancel. The move drew international condemnation and underscores the disputed status of land and statehood.