The case for a nation that knows its borders

Israel recently issued tenders for 1,234 housing units in E1, a strategic area between Jerusalem and Ma’ale Adumim, as part of a larger plan for approximately 3,400 homes. This development aims to strengthen the physical connection between Ma’ale Adumim and Jerusalem, transforming the area into an urban corridor. The E1 plan, dating back to 1994 under Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, has been consistently supported by successive Israeli prime ministers but repeatedly shelved due to international pressure. The article argues that Israel should define its own borders, rather than waiting indefinitely for a peace agreement with the Palestinians, who have consistently refused offers for a final settlement. Former Knesset member Einat Wilf states, "There is nothing inherently aggressive about wanting defined boundaries." The author suggests that building in E1 is a step towards establishing permanent and defensible borders for Israel, rather than jeopardizing a future peace deal, which has proven elusive.