Israel’s mobile operators have reportedly raised objections about a tender that would allow new companies to acquire 4G frequencies and enter the nation’s wireless sector, Telegeography.com reports, quoting Globes Online.

A public tender for 4G spectrum is expected in the coming weeks and it is understood that operators have called for the frequencies to be allocated to existing players by the Communications Ministry, at a price set by the Finance Ministry.

This strategy, according to the operators, would prevent a bidding war that could send LTE-suitable spectrum prices rocketing because of the limited amount available. Furthermore, they have argued that, since it has already been decided that Israel have three 4G networks, frequencies should be allocated based on other considerations than the price.

The calls for a restricted allocation of 4G spectrum come amid suggestions that Israeli operators are concerned that one of the nation’s mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) could look to bid if a tender were to be made publicly.