Security barrier to include Ma’ale Adumim

Monday, May 16, 2005 |

Israel is set to start construction of a segment of its security barrier that will include the biggest settlement in Judea and Samaria, Ma'ale Adumim, on the Israeli side of the border. The aim is to connect the settlement to Jerusalem, but it's a political hot potato. President Bush opposes the plan because it would cut off Palestinians in the territories from East Jerusalem, which they want as the capital of a future state. Prime Minister Ariel Sharon says the major settlement blocs will remain a part of Israel--no matter what. Officials say construction will begin by the end of this month. Israel will also begin construction on another portion of the barrier to the south, which will encompass the Gush Etzion settlement bloc.

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