Palestinian negotiator condemns Israeli housing plan in West Bank

Occupied Jerusalem: One hundred new homes will rise in two Jewish settlements in the West Bank, the Israeli government announced on Friday.

The Housing Ministry said 48 of the planned homes will be built in Ariel and another 52 in the enclave of Elkana, putting fresh tension on Palestinian-Israeli peace.

Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat condemned the plan, adding that Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas would discuss the issue during White House talks next week.

A 2003 peace "road map" requires a halt to all settlement activity on occupied land where Palestinians seek statehood.

The Israeli government insists it can continue building homes within the settlement blocs, though US officials have consistently demanded a freeze..