JERUSALEM, Aug 17: Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has approved 1,000 more Israeli settler homes in the occupied West Bank to defuse a ruling party mutiny but the move was likely to anger Washington.

US officials suggested the decision, disclosed by Sharon confidants on Tuesday, contradicted Washington's "road map" peace plan that prescribes a freeze on settlement building on territory where Palestinians have been fighting for statehood.

But Housing Minister Tzipi Livni said on Tuesday the construction bids would adhere to "understandings" with Washington that new homes could be erected with in current settlement boundaries. -Reuters

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...