US 'concerned' by reports of further settlement construction

In response to reports that Israel issued tenders for construction of some 20,000 housing units in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, the White House stated it was against the move.

"We are deeply concerned by the latest reports that over 20,000 additional units are in the early planning stages," the White House statement said. "We are currently seeking further explanation from the Government of Israel. Our position on settlements is quite clear: We do not accept the legitimacy of continued settlement activity. (Yitzhak Benhorin, Washington)