London Threatens Israeli Companies… Potential Sanctions Over E1 Project

Britain escalated pressure on Israel over the construction project in the E1 area between Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim, after British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband warned companies, contractors and developers against participating in the tender, hinting at possible sanctions including asset freezes, trade restrictions and legal consequences. The tender for 1,234 housing units closes for bids today, while the opening and consideration of bids was postponed to November 19, after the Israeli elections scheduled for October 27. The E1 plan includes 3,401 housing units, and European countries say it threatens Palestinian geographic contiguity and the possibility of a two-state solution.