Itongadol.- State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the step would also send a "troubling message" if the Israeli government proceeded with tenders and construction.
The United States expressed concern on Wednesday about reports that Israel had moved forward plans for settlements in east Jerusalem, warning the move would call into question Israel\’s commitment to peace with the Palestinians.
State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the step would also send a "troubling message" if the Israeli government proceeded with tenders and construction.
"This development will only draw condemnation from the international community, distance Israel from even its closest allies, poison the atmosphere not only with the Palestinians but also with the very Arab governments with which Prime Minister (Binyamin) Netanyahu said he wanted to build relations," Psaki told a briefing.
In addition, it would "call into question Israel\’s ultimate commitment to a peaceful negotiated settlement," she added.
Plans are under way to build 2,610 new homes in Givat Hamatos, a diplomatically sensitive area of east Jerusalem, which Palestinians believe should be part of their future state.
The Jerusalem Municipality approved the project in December 2012 but waited almost two years, until Wednesday, September 24, to place news of the approval in a local paper, according to Peace Now.
Building, however, can occur only once the municipality publishes tenders for the project, which is located near the Jewish neighborhood of Har Homa, which is opposed by the Palestinians.