Judea and Samaria – www.israelhayom.com https://www.israelhayom.com israelhayom english website Mon, 24 Nov 2025 06:35:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.israelhayom.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/cropped-G_rTskDu_400x400-32x32.jpg Judea and Samaria – www.israelhayom.com https://www.israelhayom.com 32 32 Israel's message: We will do what it takes https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/24/hezbollah-tabatabai-israel-military-rebuild/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/24/hezbollah-tabatabai-israel-military-rebuild/#respond Mon, 24 Nov 2025 03:23:20 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1104937 The elimination of senior Hezbollah military operative Ali Tabtabai in Beirut delivers Israel's clear ultimatum: It will not permit the terror group's military reconstruction, even if this leads to a broader conflict. This precision strike, an intelligence and operational triumph, forces Hezbollah into a strategic corner where all response options carry a heavy cost. The action also validates Israel's commitment to disarming its enemies and signals a strong regional message to Tehran, Hamas, and the Lebanese government. Furthermore, the action indicates that Israel maintains operational freedom with the understanding of the Trump administration.

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With the dust barely settled from the IDF's precision strike in Beirut, uncertainty hangs over how, or when, Hezbollah will choose to retaliate for the killing of Haytham 'Ali Tabataba'i– the group's military wing chief. What is certain is that Israel has made it explicitly clear to the terrorist organization, and to everyone meddling in the turbulent Middle Eastern affairs, that it is resolved to prevent its military reconstruction, even if it means an increased risk of the fighting flaring up.

Almost a year after the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon took effect, and following clear indications that Israel was unwilling to tolerate Hezbollah's entrenchment efforts or the Lebanese government's inaction, Israel carried out a surgical and focused attack on the organization's most senior military operative, who had been charged with the task of rebuilding its strength.

Israel did not equivocate or apologize but instead took full responsibility for the action. Crucially, Israel maintained a normal routine on the home front, a move calculated to prevent the enemy from interpreting a change in policy as an acknowledgment of a necessary response equation, particularly for eliminations at this senior level.

This operation represents a significant intelligence and operational coup for the IDF, especially considering Hezbollah's adjustments over the past year and the lessons the group drew from the war. Israel is signaling that it retains the capability to track down terror operatives, locate their hideouts, and execute precise strikes deep inside residential areas of the Lebanese capital.

Haytham 'Ali Tabataba'i against the background of his assassination site (AFP / Ibrahim AMRO)

The willingness to conduct this operation, coming just weeks after Naim Qassem warned publicly that "the continuation of the aggression unacceptable and everything has a limit," underscores that Israel is not deterred by the possibility of its actions leading to renewed fighting.

Israel is conveying this message through the elimination of Tabataba'i not only to other Hezbollah operatives but also to Hamas in Gaza, the Iranian leadership in Tehran, the Lebanese government in Beirut, Ahmad al-Sharaa in Damascus, and the various countries involved in security arrangements in both arenas, from Turkey and Qatar to Egypt and Saudi Arabia. By taking this action, Israel is reaffirming its commitment to independently disarm its enemies should political arrangements prove incapable of doing so.

While Hezbollah leaders will undoubtedly attempt to leverage the strike to unite Lebanese forces against Israel, the operation could conversely bolster the Lebanese government's demands of Hezbollah, most notably its call for a state monopoly on weapons.

Finally, the Beirut strike shows that Israel's operational latitude remains intact under the current Trump administration policy. Although the administration prefers to avoid a renewal of intense fighting, it displays understanding, and possibly even support, for Israel's pinpoint operations after other diplomatic efforts to prevent its enemies' military expansion have been exhausted. It's plausible that the American administration believes such a strike will not impede the political track but may even accelerate progress toward a resolution.

Much like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon is being forced by Israel's actions into a critical decision point where every available option is detrimental. If the group chooses restraint and de-escalation, Israel will continue to eliminate its operatives and further erode its tattered dignity. If it opts for a forceful response, it will incur a steep cost and bolster the arguments of its opponents within Lebanon. And if it settles for a symbolic counter-strike, it will demonstrate weakness against Israel and cheapen the value of its senior commanders' lives.

Today, neither Hezbollah nor Hamas possesses the leverage to constrain Israel's actions or impose a price that would compel it to hold back.

The enemy's attempts to inflame the Judea and Samaria arena and thereby complicate Israel's operations and extract a cost have persisted since the war began. The security establishment has learned how to manage this threat, and its ongoing operations have largely prevented the enemy from achieving its desired effect.

The preparations for the public funeral ceremony for late Hezbollah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safieddine, who were killed in Israeli airstrikes in 2024 (Reuters / Mohammed Yassin / TPX)

It is reasonable to assume that Hezbollah is also exploring the option of carrying out attacks abroad, potentially with or without the aid of other Iranian actors. This potential scenario is also a priority on the security establishment's agenda.

The most challenging scenario demanding focused attention from Israeli agencies is a kidnapping attempt. Hamas is acutely aware of the difference between the reality before the release of the living hostages and the current situation, despite existing agreements. The lure of a kidnapping is substantial. While conditions in the Gaza Strip may create opportunities, the threat is not limited to that front.

Now is the time to heighten vigilance and intensify intelligence and preventative efforts across all theaters. IDF forces must be permitted to adopt an aggressive fire policy to protect the areas under their control within the Strip's limits, thereby preventing Gazans from gaining access to those zones. Concurrently, offensive operations against terror operatives with relevant expertise in Judea and Samaria and east Jerusalem must be stepped up. The message must be unequivocal: Do not permit another kidnapping – at any cost.

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Israeli leaders choose politics over national security https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/23/israel-three-front-security-crisis-conscription-law/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/23/israel-three-front-security-crisis-conscription-law/#respond Sun, 23 Nov 2025 08:04:33 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1104521 Israel confronts potential escalation across three combat zones – Gaza, Lebanon and Judea and Samaria – while Iran accelerates missile production. Yet government legislative priorities center on controversial ultra-Orthodox draft evasion law opposed by military officials. Analysis by Yoav Limor for Israel Hayom.

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Three immediate combat fronts demand IDF action, with a fourth simmering in the background. Each presents escalation potential, though with varying degrees of volatility and differing effects on other theaters. This weekend, IDF forces operated across all three fronts – Judea and Samaria, Gaza and Lebanon. In Lebanon, reports showed ongoing strikes against Hezbollah operatives and infrastructure, with several launchers prepared for launch destroyed yesterday.

Whether these launchers were deployed as part of Hezbollah's broader effort to restore military capabilities or as preparation for shorter-term retaliation to potential IDF-initiated operations remains unclear. Recent weeks brought reports that Israel prepares for extensive operations in southern Lebanon, given the Lebanese Armed Forces' failure (or refusal) to secure the territory.

Yesterday, Lebanese Armed Forces chief Rodolphe Haykal stated operations advance as planned, yet Israeli sources note Hezbollah rebuilds infrastructure faster than expected, forcing Israel to act independently. Israeli activity seems designed partly to pressure Lebanon's government – via the United States and France – while threatening war renewal.

In the Gaza front, IDF forces leverage Hamas ceasefire violations to impose costs on the organization. Initial responses targeted specific violations – operatives crossing the yellow line faced elimination – but now each incident triggers broader strikes (yesterday brought elimination of mid-level Hamas military wing operatives). Palestinian accusations that Israel seeks to destroy the agreement sound exaggerated currently, as Israel apparently pushes the organization toward full agreement compliance, while three deceased hostages remain in Gaza.

Hamas terrorists (backdrop: Gaza Strip) / REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa; Omar AL-QATTAA / AFP

Israel won't risk combat resumption without explicit American approval. President Donald Trump currently embraces the agreement – he hosted released living hostages at his office last week – and actively promotes subsequent phases, including unprecedented economic deals with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, some carrying significant Israeli implications. Jerusalem exploits this to pressure Hamas and its Doha and Ankara sponsors, though unlike the Lebanese model, Israeli operational latitude appears limited.

The Judea and Samaria front currently appears most volatile, amid sharply increased Palestinian terror activity and violent incidents – some constituting actual terror – by Jewish extremists. IDF and Shin Bet forces must allocate greater attention to this theater, whose impact exceeds its geographic boundaries: developments there could affect all other theaters and ignite them, carrying extensive political consequences. Last week, the prime minister and defense minister vowed forceful action against Jewish violence, yet senior officials report field measures remain "insufficient and weak." They describe this as "playing with fire" risking loss of control.

Behind activity across these three fronts, Israeli concern about Iranian developments grows. Various international media reports suggest that five months after the first Iran war concluded, parties edge toward a second Iran conflict. Israel particularly worries about accelerated Iranian missile production (reports indicate Iran already possesses missile quantities matching pre-war levels), plus continued refusal to cooperate with the Atomic Energy Committee on its nuclear program.

This intense security activity won't diminish significantly soon. Intensity levels may shift, but challenges persist, requiring defense forces to maintain extensive, complex deployments. Against this backdrop, government efforts advancing the draft evasion law become more conspicuous, directly opposing IDF requirements and Israeli society's needs while spotlighting government preference for immediate interests over long-term state and citizen welfare.

A survey by the Israel Democracy Institute, highlighted by Lilach Shoval, reflects this dynamic. Results underpin low public government trust, with officials perceived as evading October 7 accountability. This contrasts with the IDF, maintaining high public confidence despite troubling declines in commander trust and investigation credibility. The Israeli public views the IDF as a protected institution: preserving this status demands internal reform plus insisting government halt efforts weakening military strength.

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Why is Israel outsourcing its security? https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/16/israel-security-gaza-hostages-un-force/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/16/israel-security-gaza-hostages-un-force/#respond Sun, 16 Nov 2025 05:59:04 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1102645 Israel security faces upheaval with Gaza hostages still in limbo and a UN stabilization force on the horizon, backed by Arab states. As Trump meets Saudi leaders on F-35 sales, Jerusalem grapples with settler violence risks and leadership silence – a powder keg for broader conflict.

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In the Kibbutz of Be'eri, residents gathered Monday to bid farewell to Meny Godard on his final journey. Godard was murdered alongside his wife Ayelet on October 7 and abducted to Gaza. "Dad's here," his daughter Bar wrote in a message she sent Thursday night. That came after an earlier conversation in which she expressed fear he would never return.

Such fears persist regarding the three remaining fallen hostages in Gaza: Dror Or, Ran Gvili, and Sudthisak Rinthalak. Hamas committed in the deal to return them as well, but it's unclear if it can fulfill that. Senior officials said there are "certain indications" about the possible location of one of the three, though they admitted that for the other two "we're in total darkness."

Israel keeps up the pressure on Hamas over the hostages, mainly through the United States. But now it must also let Washington push forward with its plan for shifting to the next stage of the agreement. The UN Security Council is set to discuss on Monday the creation of a "stabilization force" in Gaza. The Americans are working feverishly to recruit countries that will join the force to be deployed in the Strip (initially along the Egyptian border in Rafah), and it could create several significant headaches for Israel.

The main headache concerns the force's makeup. In Israel, they claim it will get veto power to block soldiers from Turkey or Qatar, but the draft resolution that was published suggests only a "close consultation" with it. Beyond that, the security arrangements to be set opposite it also worry, since for the first time Israel's security will be "privatized" and handed over to foreign forces in a way that could even limit the IDF's freedom of action.

The Americans enjoy significant backing from leading countries in the Arab and Muslim world. Eight of them issued open support for the draft (Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and Turkey), which also explicitly addresses the issue of the Palestinian state.

Jared Kushner and President Donald Trump (background: Gaza Strip) / REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque ;AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi; Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

It's likely the topic will come up too in this week's meeting between President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which will include another sensitive issue for Israel's security – the possible sale to Saudi Arabia of stealth fighter jets of the F-35 type, which could significantly erode Israel's qualitative edge in the region.

In Washington, they're trying to tie all these moves together, including normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel (which will involve additional countries). But it seems there's room for concern given the gap between Trump's ambitious vision and the reality on the ground, including in Gaza where Hamas still holds sway.

Over the weekend, The New York Times reported that Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to meet again with the head of Hamas's political arm, Khalil al-Haya. The two met in Sharm el-Sheikh before the signing of the hostage return and war ceasefire deal, and it turns out Washington maintains a hotline with the organization it committed to dismantling.

Into this diplomatic-security focus also spills the reality in Judea and Samaria. In recent weeks, there has been a sharp rise in the number of violence incidents by Jewish extremists against Palestinians, some of which included harm to IDF forces as well. In the defense establishment, they explain the increase with the olive harvest season, but they warn that "we're a step away from a Duma 2," referring to the tragic Jewish terrorism that killed several family members in a Palestinian village several years ago.

White House special envoy Steve Witkoff speaks with journalists after a signing ceremony between President Donald Trump and Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani at the Amiri Diwan in Doha, Qatar, Wednesday, May 14, 2025 (AP/Alex Brandon)

These warnings were voiced in several situation assessments, and even passed on to the political echelon including the possible implications – from an outbreak of a broad wave of violence in Judea and Samaria, and up to a collapse of the Gaza ceasefire and broad clashes with the Muslim world.

Meanwhile, the political leadership maintains silence. The prime minister and the defense minister, who excel at commenting on every matter and issue, say not a word on this explosive topic, which also gets coverage in the international media and statements from foreign statesmen. The motives for their silence are clear – the fear of alienating the political base – but its meaning is a signal to the rioters that they have backing from the country's leadership to continue their actions.

This leadership cowardice, which contradicts the clear interest of the state, is a direct continuation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz's conduct on the exemption from the Haredi conscription law issue being advanced apace, and to a slew of additional matters – the judicial legislation, the legislation against the media, the intense focus on a pardon for Netanyahu – in all of which the public interest is pushed aside. Don Corleone, seated as godfather, already pointed out that everything is personal: In Israel 2025, everything is personal, and also political.

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Lizzy Savetsky dons Israeli headscarf 'in response to the keffiyeh' https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/03/lizzy-savetsky-judea-samaria-headscarf-viral/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/11/03/lizzy-savetsky-judea-samaria-headscarf-viral/#respond Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:25 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1099935 American pro-Israel influencer Lizzy Savetsky marked her 40th birthday with a viral fashion moment in Judea and Samaria, where Binyamin Regional Council's Eliana Passentin demonstrated traditional headscarf styling techniques.

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Lizzy Savetsky's birthday visit to Binyamin Regional Council merged New York fashion sensibility with Judea and Samaria tradition as the pro-Israel social media advocate learned to style a traditional Jewish headscarf. The American influencer's 40th birthday celebration featured a headscarf demonstration that has drawn thousands of followers demanding she introduce what she terms "settler chic" to Manhattan.

The influencer, whose advocacy work since the October 7 massacre has positioned her as a prominent pro-Israel voice online, spent her milestone birthday with Binyamin Regional Council officials. A standard regional visit evolved into one of the week's most discussed social media moments when Eliana Passentin, Director of the International Desk at Binyamin Regional Council, demonstrated local headscarf styling techniques.

Passentin's demonstration for Savetsky generated the viral clip that has accumulated more than 140,000 views, with the American influencer exclaiming, "You know how I love accessories" as the regional official expertly wrapped the fabric around her head. Savetsky concluded the demonstration by announcing, "Guys, this is settlers' chic! I'm moving to the yeshuv!"

Savetsky's video caption articulated her intentions plainly as "In response to keffiyeh, I bring you the TICHEL. Styled by my settler queen. Should we bring the tichel to NYC and make it mainstream? I'm feelin it." the influencer wrote. Social media responses arrived swiftly and demonstrated strong support, particularly from female followers who flooded comment sections with enthusiastic reactions. Commenter Julia wrote, "The second style is so you!" while Angie added, "This is fascinating! Please teach us more!" Malka celebrated with "The Jewish queens have united," and Viti urged, "Yes, please make it mainstream, especially in New York."

A protester wearing a keffiyeh and waving a Palestinian flag faces police officers during an unauthorized rally in solidarity with the Palestinian people, in Bern, Switzerland, 11 October 2025 (Photo: EPA/Peter Klaunzer) EPA

The influencer launched her digital presence focusing on fashion and lifestyle content, but the October 7 massacre, which occurred during her time in Israel, redirected her platform toward pro-Israel advocacy, transforming her into one of the world's most visible online voices supporting Israel. Her social media channels now combat antisemitism and advance Israel's position, establishing her as a significant advocacy figure despite facing consequences that have included death threats directed at her family because of her public positions.

The Binyamin Regional Council hosted Savetsky for her birthday milestone, presenting her with a celebratory cake and arranging a tour led by Passentin that highlighted the region's strategic significance to Israel and the call for sovereignty. However, it was the headscarf moment that captured hearts far beyond the tour.

The looming question centers on whether Manhattan streets will soon feature "settler chic" headscarves, with observers suggesting that if anyone possesses the influence to accomplish such a fashion shift, Savetsky represents that figure.

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Blood-soaked hands: These are the notorious killers Israel will release https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/10/10/blood-soaked-hands-these-are-the-notorious-killers-israel-will-release/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/10/10/blood-soaked-hands-these-are-the-notorious-killers-israel-will-release/#respond Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:39:49 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1094241 The Justice Ministry released Friday a list of 250 life-sentence prisoners serving terms for murder and involvement in deadly attacks set to be released as part of the deal with Hamas. The terrorists belong primarily to Hamas, PIJ, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and Fatah. Here are just some of the names. […]

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The Justice Ministry released Friday a list of 250 life-sentence prisoners serving terms for murder and involvement in deadly attacks set to be released as part of the deal with Hamas. The terrorists belong primarily to Hamas, PIJ, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and Fatah. Here are just some of the names.

One central Hamas operative designated for release is Imad Qawasmeh (52), who has been serving 16 life sentences since 2004 for involvement in a suicide bombing that killed 16 Israelis. According to the Prisoners Organization Media Office, he is one of the "leaders" of the terrorists in prison.

Imad Qawasmeh

The West Bank resident was involved in offenses including training terrorists, attempted murder, and conspiracy to cause death with intent. Qawasmeh is on the deportation list. During a 2004 operation, after the attack in which he was involved, he was captured by Israeli forces after his house was bombed and he escaped through a tunnel. He has a long history of attacks. He was first sentenced to five years in prison in 1994 when he assisted Hamas' "military wing" logistically. In 1999 he was released after completing his sentence, and eventually returned to terrorist activity in the Second Intifada.

Another Hamas operative designated for release is Qassem Aref Khalil al-Asafreh (36). In 2019 he was arrested after being involved in a stabbing attack in Gush Etzion, in which soldier Dvir Sorek was murdered.

Al-Asafreh was part of a terrorist cell with his cousin and another operative. The cell failed in two attempts before the attack. After the murder they planned another attack. Al-Asafreh is designated for deportation.

Muhammad Aref Samhan (55) is a terrorist who dispatched several suicide bombers, and is responsible for the attack on Bus Line 2, in which 23 people were murdered and 130 others were wounded. He is designated for deportation and belonged to the "Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades," from Fatah, during the Second Intifada.

Ibrahim Muhammad al-Raai (46) is a terrorist belonging to a Tanzim cell of Fatah. He is responsible for a bombing attack in the Casbah in Nablus, in which Osher Damari fell in 2006. Al-Raai was only arrested in 2022. He was recruited remotely by a terrorist from Gaza and worked to recruit additional terrorists. He was also involved in shooting attacks in the area of Joseph's Tomb. From the Shin Bet investigation it emerged that he participated in dozens of shooting attacks against Israeli forces and planting explosives.

Dvir Yehuda Sorek (Courtesy)

One of those designated for release to the West Bank, who is not designated for deportation, is Rashid Mahmoud Omar (48). He was convicted of causing death with intent, membership in a Fatah terrorist cell, shooting at people, attempted murder, and involvement in hostile actions. He was arrested several months after the end of the Second Intifada (summer 2005) in the village of Faraoon in Samaria. He was convicted of the murder of a Palestinian whom he accused of "collaboration with Israel."

Another Fatah operative is Raad Abd al-Aziz (45), who was convicted of offenses including causing death with intent, possession of firearms, attempted murder, and conspiracy to cause death with intent. He is a resident of the Ramallah area who has been in prison for approximately 20 years for terrorist activity in the Second Intifada. Al-Aziz is designated for deportation abroad.

From PIJ, Omar Mahmoud Bassis (60) is designated for release. He is a terrorist convicted of planting explosives, membership in a terrorist organization, shooting at people, and attempted murder. He was also captured during the Second Intifada, in 2004. Also from PIJ, Arafat Hamid Zir (43) is expected to be released to the West Bank area. He was convicted of membership in a terrorist organization, aiding murder, and incitement to murder, and entered prison in 2003.

Iyad Muhammad Abu al-Rub

Faisal Mahmoud Abdullah Khalifa (43) is also set to be released to the Samaria area and not be deported. He is a Hamas operative who has been in security detention since December 2024. He is accused of offenses including membership in a terrorist organization, providing shelter to wanted persons, storing weapons, and conspiracy to cause death with intent.

On the deportation list is Firas Sadiq Muhammad Ghanem (51). He is a security detainee from Jerusalem, who was captured during the Second Intifada. He is accused of offenses including state security, causing death with intent, possession of firearms, attempted murder, conspiracy to cause death with intent, and more. According to the Prisoners Organization, he is accused of participating in attacks when he belonged to the "Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades," the Fatah branch in those years. It was also noted that these attacks led to nine murdered Israelis.

Another person designated for release in the deal is Ibrahim al-Hani (54), a Popular Front operative sentenced to multiple life sentences for involvement in attacks in the Second Intifada. He has been in prison since 2006 and survived an assassination attempt in the past.

Another Popular Front operative is Ibrahim al-Qam (53), who is supposed to be released. He is serving two life sentences for involvement in terrorist activity. He is one of those designated for deportation.

Another Fatah operative designated for deportation is Atiyah Abu Samhadana (56), from the Gaza Strip. He was captured in 1996 for offenses including murder and use of dangerous drugs. He is one of the veteran prisoners, a Rafah resident arrested for terrorist operations. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison, which is supposed to end this month.

From PIJ, Iyad Muhammad Abu al-Rub (51) is designated for release, a senior figure in the organization and "head of the military wing" in Jenin. He is responsible for planning a series of suicide bombings. He was involved in attacks at a club in Tel Aviv and a mall in Netanya. He is designated for deportation.

From Hamas, Alaa al-Din al-Karki (52) is designated for deportation. He is accused of causing death with intent, possession of weapons, throwing Molotov cocktails, attempted murder, and more. Al-Karki has been in prison since 1993.

Ibrahim al-Hani

Ghufran al-Zamel, fiancée of senior Hamas figure in prison Hassan Salameh, whom Israel refuses to release, appealed to Hamas leaders Khalil al-Hayya, Zaher Jabarin, Khaled Mashal, and Muhammad Darwish. "We, the families of veteran prisoners and those sentenced to life imprisonment, demand that you not give up on them. Abandoning them would be breaking a covenant that has lasted more than three decades. Do not abandon Sinwar's will and Muhammad Deif's commitment," she declared.

In the message she also mentioned the names of arch-terrorists Abdullah Barghouti, Ibrahim Hamed, and Abbas al-Sayed, whom she calls to release along with Salameh.

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Trump saved Israel from itself by taking hot-button issue off the table https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/26/trump-saved-israel-from-itself-by-taking-hot-button-issue-off-the-table/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/26/trump-saved-israel-from-itself-by-taking-hot-button-issue-off-the-table/#respond Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:35:44 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1091177 The decision by President Donald Trump to close the door definitively on the idea of applying Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria did not surprise anyone who had correctly assessed the diplomatic lay of the land. In the view of the American president, who sees himself as protecting Israel daily from both internal and external […]

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The decision by President Donald Trump to close the door definitively on the idea of applying Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria did not surprise anyone who had correctly assessed the diplomatic lay of the land. In the view of the American president, who sees himself as protecting Israel daily from both internal and external threats and pressures, sovereignty grants him no benefit – only an unwelcome headache. So why would he involve himself in it at all?

For Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the American president's decision marks a moment to feel relieved. He now possesses a devastating answer for the right-wing sector of the coalition and members of the Likud who continually press for sovereignty. As is recorded in the Book of Esther: "For a writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may no one reverse." What Donald Trump determined is now fact – and nothing can be done about it.

President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against the backdrop of Doha, Qatar (Getty Images/imagean; AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson; Marc Israel Sellem; Flash90/Chaim Goldberg) Getty Images/imagean; AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson; Marc Israel Sellem; Flash90/Chaim Goldberg;

The Yesha Council, which managed a very successful and sophisticated campaign both domestically and in Washington, was able to elevate the idea of sovereignty high in public opinion, but it appears the council failed to accurately pick-up the broader diplomatic mood. It was evident in recent weeks that in light of the international anti-Israeli sentiment sweeping countries, it was just unthinkable to further antagonize the international community with that move.

Instead of insisting on sovereignty until the very end, the Yesha Council could have proposed a wise compromise to Donald Trump, Emmanuel Macron, and Benjamin Netanyahu: We will forgo the idea of sovereignty, and in return, the French president will withdraw from the initiative to recognize a Palestinian state. As this did not occur – the bitter outcome now is that Israel both received the international recognition of a Palestinian state and forfeited the sovereignty option – without any compensation. The missed opportunity is unfortunate.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump during their meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2025 (GPO/Avi Ohayon)

However, there is also a somewhat positive angle to Donald Trump's decision. The American president effectively saved Israel from itself. Sovereignty at this juncture would have exacted extremely heavy political and economic costs, primarily in the form of European sanctions even more severe than those still anticipated to arrive. It is highly questionable how successfully Israel could have practically implemented sovereignty on the ground, given that it has more than enough critical issues on its plate to deal with these days.

Sovereignty will absolutely come eventually – but gradually, at a more appropriate time and under better circumstances. Sometimes the truest friend is the one who understands when to say "no."

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The appropriate response is Jewish return https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/25/the-appropriate-response-is-jewish-return/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/25/the-appropriate-response-is-jewish-return/#respond Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:00:56 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1090897 Even before implementing sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, it is both possible and advisable to respond to the tsunami of recognition by numerous countries of a Palestinian state with a settlement tsunami of our own. Many have not noticed that the UN General Assembly resolution from two weeks ago also includes recognition of the "right […]

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Even before implementing sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, it is both possible and advisable to respond to the tsunami of recognition by numerous countries of a Palestinian state with a settlement tsunami of our own. Many have not noticed that the UN General Assembly resolution from two weeks ago also includes recognition of the "right of return" that Palestinians claim for themselves a return into the boundaries of pre-1967 Israel, within the Green Line.

The strategic settlement response

The appropriate response is a Jewish return strategic, goal-oriented, with the declared purpose of disrupting the feasibility of establishing a Palestinian state, which represents the ultimate threat: damaging our rights, our security, and rewarding the Hamas Palestinian-Nazis and terrorism.

Israel possesses a rich toolbox for on-the-ground action to thwart a Palestinian state. The first settlement plan in line is E-1, the connection plan between Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim, which previous US administrations blocked to prevent Israel from severing the building continuity Palestinians seek between northern Judea and Samaria (Ramallah area) and southern Judea and Samaria (Hebron area), and to prevent Israel from creating its own settlement continuity from Jerusalem eastward toward the Dead Sea.

Critical urban development projects

Second in line is the construction of the Jewish neighborhood on Jewish-owned land in Atarot in northern Jerusalem. This construction will determine whether Jerusalem's "northern finger," which Levi Eshkol and his colleagues annexed in 1967, will remain part of the Israeli-Jewish settlement fabric, or whether Palestinians will take control of it and even sovereignly disconnect it from Jerusalem, as they aspire, for their Palestinian state dream.

But this is insufficient. There are additional plans in the pipeline that must be implemented immediately. Declarations won't suffice. The Jordan Valley Regional Council has plans to establish Date Palm City, a large Haredi urban settlement near Jericho, as well as a settlement in the northern valley connecting Shadmot Mehola and Bekaot to Argaman. Currently, the vast area between these settlements is empty of Jewish settlement.

Dramatization: Israelites felling the walls of Jericho with the ark of the covenant (Photo: Ann Conanan/National Geographic) Ann Conanan/National Geographic

Strategic settlement positioning

Rehavam, scheduled according to the recent Jerusalem Day government decision to be established in the Shilo bloc, is a strategic settlement that will deepen Israeli presence near Route 505, in the section between Kfar Tapuach and Migdalim in Samaria. The same applies to Ma'alot Halchul, also known as Givat Asher, near the Al-Aroub bypass road, where initial settlers have already arrived, but which needs to be established, strengthened, and expanded to become a significant settlement point between Kiryat Arba and Gush Etzion.

Investment in this point, and in similar additional points whose role is to create Jewish settlement continuities in places currently lacking such continuity, will have no less benefit perhaps even greater than sovereignty declarations.

A clear message to the world

Unlike in the past, this strategic settlement should not be carried out in the dark or underground. Quite the opposite: Let the world see, understand, and know that the people of Israel have returned to their land, to their ancient homeland; that this homeland is not political currency for trade, and that beyond our security concerns (which are obviously very important), we have an interest in fulfilling the return to Zion, the return to Zion itself. And what is more Zion than Jerusalem and its surroundings, the ancient homeland regions and biblical landscapes of Judea and Samaria?

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Illegal Palestinian 'airplane' targeted for demolition https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/17/illegal-palestinian-airplane-targeted-for-demolition/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/17/illegal-palestinian-airplane-targeted-for-demolition/#respond Wed, 17 Sep 2025 06:00:36 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1089107 Will the Palestinian "celebration plane" in Samaria be destroyed? Following publication in Israel Hayom that a Palestinian guesthouse shaped like an airplane opened against the law, the Civil Administration issued four stop-work orders for the events complex. @mnor41♬ الصوت الأصلي - منور هرشه Regavim movement's mapping division was surprised to discover an airplane in aerial […]

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Will the Palestinian "celebration plane" in Samaria be destroyed? Following publication in Israel Hayom that a Palestinian guesthouse shaped like an airplane opened against the law, the Civil Administration issued four stop-work orders for the events complex.

@mnor41♬ الصوت الأصلي - منور هرشه

Regavim movement's mapping division was surprised to discover an airplane in aerial photos at the end of 2023 in northern Samaria, adjacent to Qaffin village in the seam zone region. Field coordinators reached the site, documented a structure under construction that resembled an airplane in every way, and reported it to enforcement authorities.

We note that in the entire region, there are many encroachments and hundreds of unauthorized structures.

A Palestinian guesthouse shaped like an airplane opened against the law (Photo: AFP/John Wessels)

Over nearly two years, Regavim approached authorities repeatedly, while the location simultaneously developed and transformed into an events and hospitality complex. A reply was received from the Civil Administration, affirming that this is indeed unauthorized construction and stating that enforcement steps were implemented by posting four stop-work orders. The deconstruction will be enforced in accordance with a priority order.

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IDF storms terrorists' West Bank villages https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/12/idf-storms-terrorists-west-bank-villages/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/09/12/idf-storms-terrorists-west-bank-villages/#respond Fri, 12 Sep 2025 12:00:41 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1087879 38 combat weapons were seized and 700 objectives were searched in Israeli military activity by Judea and Samaria Division troops, within the framework of the "Shield of Jerusalem" operation in the Benjamin Brigade. Israeli military forces under the leadership of the Benjamin Brigade initiated an operation with the goal of targeting terror infrastructure in the […]

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38 combat weapons were seized and 700 objectives were searched in Israeli military activity by Judea and Samaria Division troops, within the framework of the "Shield of Jerusalem" operation in the Benjamin Brigade.

Weapons confiscated (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)

Israeli military forces under the leadership of the Benjamin Brigade initiated an operation with the goal of targeting terror infrastructure in the vicinity of the villages, Qatana and Qubayba, from which the perpetrators who executed the deadly assault in Jerusalem came.

Throughout the operation, IDF troops encircled multiple villages, surveyed the two residences of the perpetrators who executed the assault, detained over 20 suspects accused of terror activities, searched over 700 objectives, and seized 38 combat items, including firearm components, ammunition clips, and ISIS banners.

Weapons confiscated (Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit)

Furthermore, in the villages of Qubayba and al-Mughayyir, from which perpetrators recently emerged, buildings and structural elements that were constructed in violation of the law were razed by the Civil Administration. The Manasseh Brigade conducted a simultaneous comprehensive brigade operation during the week in the Sanur Valley, Qabatiya, and the Jenin vicinity.

Brigade troops neutralized multiple terrorists, detained various terror operatives, and seized dozens of thousands of shekels derived from terror financing along with combat weapons. Within the framework of the operation in the Manasseh Brigade, three terrorist residences were razed, and in the Ephraim and Judah brigades, two more terrorist residences were razed.

Throughout operations in the Etzion and Samaria brigades, 21 suspects were detained, among them perpetrators who hurled rocks. The suspects who were detained and the arms that were seized were handed over for processing by the Judea and Samaria District Police and the Shin Bet.

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'Historic correction': 20 years after evacuation, Sa-Nur settlement to return https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/08/04/historical-correction-20-years-after-evacuation-sa-nur-settlement-to-return/ https://www.israelhayom.com/2025/08/04/historical-correction-20-years-after-evacuation-sa-nur-settlement-to-return/#respond Mon, 04 Aug 2025 02:00:26 +0000 https://www.israelhayom.com/?p=1077975 Twenty years after they were forcibly evacuated, families from the expelled residents of Sa-Nur and young couples have coalesced as a nucleus preparing for return and rebuilding the settlement. The founding meeting took place in the office of Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, himself a former Sa-Nur resident and member of the nucleus. Dagan […]

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Twenty years after they were forcibly evacuated, families from the expelled residents of Sa-Nur and young couples have coalesced as a nucleus preparing for return and rebuilding the settlement. The founding meeting took place in the office of Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan, himself a former Sa-Nur resident and member of the nucleus.

Video: Twenty years after they were forcibly evacuated, families from the expelled residents of Sa-Nur and young couples have coalesced as a nucleus preparing for return and rebuilding the settlement / Credit: Samaria Regional Council

Dagan said at the meeting, "We are beginning a historic step today, the first session lasting two and a half hours of the founding nucleus of the renewed Sa-Nur settlement. The Government of Israel, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, made a strategic and historic decision to return Jewish settlement to Sa-Nur in an official, state-sponsored, and complete manner. This step is not only a correction for the expelled families or for this nucleus of families, it is a national correction," Dagan added.

According to him, "What enabled the Holocaust of October 7, which led us to horror and the continuing war, is directly the expulsion from Gush Katif and northern Samaria. The nucleus here is consolidating in the coming months, to create settlement work, community work, together with all government ministries, and the State of Israel will rebuild northern Samaria and with God's help, also Gush Katif."

Religious Zionism party chairman and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who led the government decision, blessed the move and said, "Historic correction, the return to Sa-Nur – Zionism at its best. Twenty years after the expulsion and this year is a peak year in which we established 50 new settlements in Judea and Samaria."

"We re-established Sa-Nur, and establishing this return nucleus is truly good news. We are correcting the injustice in northern Samaria, and God willing, we will also correct the injustice of the expulsion from Gush Katif. I feel the fruits of the terror that sprouted in Gaza with enormous pain – the time for correction has come," he added.

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