Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has strongly criticised Israel’s move to open construction tenders for the E1 settlement project, warning that development in the strategically sensitive area could further undermine prospects for a viable Palestinian state.
The E1 area lies east of Jerusalem in the occupied West Bank and has long been regarded as crucial to maintaining territorial continuity between Palestinian communities. Israel has opened bidding for more than 1,200 housing units there, a move that has also drawn objections from several governments and international bodies.
In a statement, Anwar said construction in E1 would effectively divide the West Bank and make the creation of a contiguous Palestinian state increasingly difficult.
“I unreservedly denounce the Israeli regime’s decision to issue construction tenders for the E1 settlement project,” he said.
Anwar said the area had long been central to the viability of a future Palestinian state and warned that proceeding with the project would seriously damage efforts towards establishing a geographically connected Palestinian homeland.
He also reiterated Malaysia’s position that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are illegal under international law, accusing Israel of continuing settlement expansion despite international opposition.
The Prime Minister said the latest development came against the backdrop of continued settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
He argued that the decision reflected an erosion of Israel’s commitment to peace efforts and disregard for calls from the international community.
“Malaysia stands staunchly with the Palestinian people and their inalienable right to a sovereign, viable, contiguous and independent Palestinian state,” Anwar said.
He also issued a warning to companies considering participating in the E1 tenders, saying Malaysia would take note of any international firms involved and “act accordingly”.
The E1 project has faced international opposition for years because of concerns that construction there could sever Palestinian territorial links between the northern and southern parts of the West Bank. The United Nations has similarly warned that development in E1 poses a serious threat to the possibility of a contiguous Palestinian state.
