Israeli authorities have given preliminary approval for 300 new homes in east Jerusalem – a move that could ratchet up tensions in the holy city.

Tanaiste Eamon Gilmore has condemned plans by the Israeli government to build almost 1,300 new settler homes on Palestinian territory.

Israel today approved the construction of 238 homes in Jewish neighbourhoods in east Jerusalem, bringing an end to an unofficial building freeze in the traditionally Arab sector of the city.