Key facts
- Israel issued a tender for 1,234 settlement units in the E1 plan east of occupied Jerusalem.
- The E1 plan is internationally condemned for its potential to fragment Palestinian territory and hinder a two-state solution.
- The tender covers approximately 12 sq km between East Jerusalem and the settlement of Maale Adumim.
- The deadline for bid submissions is October 19, 2026.
- The project is expected to lead to the eviction of over 40 Bedouin communities.
Israel has opened tenders for the construction of 1,234 settlement homes in the E1 area, east of occupied Jerusalem. This move advances a controversial settlement scheme toward practical implementation, covering approximately 12 sq km between East Jerusalem and the settlement of Maale Adumim. Plans for the E1 area have long been condemned internationally, with opponents arguing they would deal a major blow to hopes of a two-state solution by effectively bisecting the West Bank and isolating East Jerusalem.
The current Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, gave the go-ahead for E1 construction a year ago, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stating the goal was to 'erase' the idea of a Palestinian state. Despite legal challenges from Bedouin Palestinians and Israeli peace groups, the housing ministry has now issued the tender. The deadline for bids is October 19, 2026, shortly before Israel's general election, which critics suggest is intended to make the deals harder for a future government to cancel.
Peace Now, an anti-settlement watchdog, warned that even partial implementation would fundamentally alter the area's character by severing the northern West Bank from the south and isolating East Jerusalem. Palestinian activist Jamal Juma stated the project would have a devastating impact, leading to the eviction of over 40 Bedouin communities and destroying Palestinian communities and families. Settlements are considered illegal under international law, and Israel has built approximately 160 settlements housing 700,000 Jews since occupying the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1967.