Israel Approves Plans For East Jerusalem Settlements

Announcement made after freeing 26 Palestinian prisoners

Israel has announced plans to build new homes in a Jewish settlement in occupied East Jerusalem, hours after freeing 26 Palestinian prisoners.

Officials said the construction of 1,500 housing units at Ramat Shlomo was one of four projects given approval.

The Palestinian Authority said the move was "destructive to peace efforts".

It is believed to be an attempt by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to assuage anger in Israel at the release of the long-term prisoners overnight.