Brussels, 13/11/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 13 November, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Catherine Ashton took note of the withdrawal of the tenders for planning issued by the Israeli Ministry for Housing and Construction on 24 and 30 October 2013, which covered 19,786 units in the West Bank and 4,000 units in East Jerusalem, Ashton's spokesperson has told EUROPE. “This withdrawal came as a result of the strong reactions to these tenders by the international community, including the EU”, he explained. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the order to his housing minister, Uri Ariel, “to reconsider” these decisions, the bureau of the prime minister said, adding that “this initiative does not contribute to settlement. Indeed, it harms it (…). This action has led to unnecessary confrontation with the international community”. Stressing that the settlements are illegal under international law, the high representative reiterates her call upon the parties to refrain from any action which could hinder or undermine the negotiation process underway, her spokesperson added. (CG/transl.fl)