LONDON, Dhu-AlQa'dah 18, 1432, Oct 16, 2011, SPA - The European Union (EU) Saturday condemned the Israeli government's decision to build 2,600 new housing units in the area located between the cities of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and Bethlehem, according to a press release by the EU commission office in London. European Union foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton considered that the Israeli decision contradicts with Israel's announcement to commit to the peace process and with the EU and international quartet's efforts to resume negotiations. She expressed grave concern at this decision, especially that the construction of these housing units in this area will block the geographical connection between the two cities of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and Bethlehem in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, according to the press release quoted by the Palestine News and Information Agency "WAFA". Ashton called on the Israeli government to retract its decision that violates international law and contradicts with the commitments stated in the Road Map, reminding of EU's position that condemns settlement activities' policies. --SPA 11:43 LOCAL TIME 08:43 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/934519