Kuala lumpur: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Friday denounced Israel's issuance of construction tenders for the illegal E1 settlement project in the occupied West Bank, warning international companies against participating in the project. According to TRTworld.com, Anwar made a strong statement on X, condemning the Israeli regime's decision to issue construction tenders for the E1 settlement project. He emphasized the significance of the land east of Jerusalem, highlighting its critical role in the viability of a Palestinian state. He warned that construction in this area would not only divide the occupied West Bank but also severely undermine the prospects for a contiguous Palestinian homeland. Earlier this week, Israeli rights groups, including Ir Amim, Bimkom, and Peace Now, reported that Israel had issued a tender for 1,234 settlement units under the project without notifying the petitioners challenging it. This action was taken despite a prior commitment to provide advance notice. The E1 pla n aims to connect the illegal Maale Adumim settlement with occupied East Jerusalem through construction on Palestinian land, involving approximately 3,400 settlement units. Critics from various countries argue that the E1 project, by dividing the West Bank, would render a two-state solution unattainable. Anwar emphasized that Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are illegal under international law and accused Israel of continuing its settlement activities with complete disregard for legal norms. He further expressed concern over the latest decision amidst unprecedented illegal settler violence against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank and ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza, which he described as genocide. Anwar remarked that Israel's recent actions indicate its abandonment of even the pretense of seeking peace or respecting international community sentiments. Reaffirming Malaysia's support, Anwar emphasized the Palestinian people's right to a sovereign, viable, contiguous, and independe nt state. He also issued a stern warning to companies considering involvement in the tenders, stating that Malaysia would closely monitor any international company choosing to participate and would respond accordingly.