Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday convened a meeting with council heads from Judea and Samaria at the Kirya in Tel Aviv. The discussions centered on the urgent civilian and security needs of the region and the impact of recent sanctions on settlements.
During the meeting, Netanyahu emphasized the necessity of enhancing security in Judea and Samaria, as well as in seam line communities. He highlighted the IDF's crucial efforts in recent months to target terrorist organizations in the region, which have improved the quality of life there.
Netanyahu expressed grave concern over the sanctions affecting residents and organizations, stating, "We are actively working to prevent these sanctions. This is a matter of national importance for all of Israel, not just Judea and Samaria."
Israel Ganz, Chairman of the Binyamin Regional Council and Yesha Council, criticized the lack of a definitive stance against the sanctions, which he views as a threat aimed at establishing a Palestinian state. He urged that immediate action be taken rather than waiting for the US elections, and called for measures to counteract the sanctions, including potential unilateral actions in Judea and Samaria.
Yossi Dagan, Chairman of the Samaria Regional Council, condemned the sanctions as a severe attack on Israeli sovereignty, affecting individuals who have not been formally investigated. He suggested that if sanctions persist, Israel should cease funding the Palestinian Authority and consider applying sovereignty in Judea and Samaria.
Ariel Mayor Yair Chetbon supported Netanyahu's resolve and called for increased IDF activities in the region. He stressed that the situation in Jenin and Tulkarm should be addressed with the same intensity as in Gaza.
Efrat Mayor Dovi Shefler thanked Netanyahu and proposed transferring Solomon’s Pools to Area C, emphasizing the need for more housing development in Judea and Samaria to strengthen Israel’s presence in Bethlehem.
Hebron Mayor Eyal Gelman highlighted the historical and current significance of Hebron in Israel’s defense efforts. He commended Netanyahu for supporting Hebron’s development and called for continued strong leadership.
Sha’ar HaShomron Chairman Avi Roeh and Karnei Shomron Chairman Yonatan Kuznitz also voiced their support for Netanyahu's stance against the sanctions and emphasized the need to reinforce communities in Judea and Samaria.
Givat Ze’ev Mayor Yosef Asraf praised Netanyahu's leadership and urged for continued construction throughout Israel to strengthen national positions.
Kedumim Mayor Oziel Vatik warned of the deteriorating Oslo Accords and advocated for a shift from defensive to offensive strategies, including increased IDF operations in affected areas.
Oranit Council Head Or Piron Zomer underscored the importance of leveraging the current global support to enhance security and construction in Samaria and other regions.
Overall, the meeting underscored a unified call for bolstering Israeli sovereignty and security in response to the sanctions and ongoing regional challenges.
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