Under The Radar: Israel’s Government Begins Normalizing 68 Towns in Judea and Samaria

During a Cabinet session held in February 2023, a resolution was passed to regularize the status of ten Jewish settlements, aligning with the terms outlined in the coalition pact with the Religious Zionism party under Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s leadership.

A recent revelation by Channel 12 News analyst Amit Segal sheds light on an expanded scope of the normalization initiative, with indications suggesting the inclusion of additional communities. Moreover, Smotrich has reportedly issued directives to governmental bodies, in line with the Cabinet’s mandate, to greenlight 68 communities.

Among the identified locales are Malachei Hashalom, situated near the site of Binyamin Achimeir’s recent tragic demise, along with Gva’ot Shiloh, which encompasses Adei Ad, Esh Kodesh, Ahiya, Kida, Maaleh Shlomo, Mitzpe Kramim, Neve Erez, Mitzpe Dani, Mitzpe Hagit, Neve Achi near Neve Tzuf, Harasha, Sde Ephraim, and the Neve Shir enclave within Eli.

The decision and subsequent actions signify the state’s formal acknowledgment and recognition of these settlements, transitioning them from disputed territories to officially recognized municipalities, thus averting potential evacuations.

Furthermore, the decree paves the way for integrating these communities into existing infrastructural networks, a departure from previous restrictions, enabling governmental agencies to cater to their needs akin to any other Israeli populace. Enhanced local governance will bolster service provisions for residents.

Shlomo Ne’eman, Chairman of the Yesha Council, lauded the strides made in endorsing 68 “young communities” across Judea and Samaria. These settlements, established long ago and now endorsed by the state, mark a pivotal advancement for the broader Judea and Samaria endeavor, rectifying long-standing grievances of infrastructure deprivation endured by thousands of residents. Ne’eman expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Netanyahu, Minister of Finance, and Minister in the Ministry of Defense, Bezalel Smotrich, for their commitment to advancing the cause.

{Matzav.com Israel}