During the second term of former President Barack Obama, the US vetoed Jewish building plans in East Jerusalem, which among other things pushed up real estate prices considerably. However, following the change of government in Washington, Israel has effectively been given a green light to build by the Trump administration.
For the first time since the liberation of Jerusalem during the Six Day War in 1967, the official urban area of Jerusalem has increased to almost 31,000 acres. On the hilly slopes between Arnona and Kibbutz Ramat Rachel, building plans for 2,500 housing units have now been approved. The Interior Ministry has set aside 62 acres of land on the southeastern border of the city for this project.
“On the occasion of the anniversary of the reunification of the city, Jerusalem has received a gift and can now finally start to rebuild and enlarge,” said Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat. “In doing so our goal is to encourage young families to come to Jerusalem, which will strengthen Israel’s capital.”
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