Maariv describes the start of pre-qualification for Israel’s largest infrastructure packages to date. The screening will select local and international consortia to dig tunnels, build stations, and run control systems. The article notes the network will have 109 underground stations in 24 central municipalities, connecting with existing light-rail lines and rapid bus corridors. NTA says the shortlist will determine who enters the EPC tenders, with criteria combining tunneling experience, financial strength, and strict environmental and safety compliance. It is a key step before signing contracts worth tens of billions of shekels.