Israeli council approves new settlements and regularization in Binyamin region

The Binyamin Regional Council, in coordination with the Ministry of Settlement and partners Amana and Nechela, has moved forward with one of the largest settlement initiatives in the West Bank in decades. The political‑security cabinet approved the creation and legalization of 13 new communities across western and eastern Binyamin, with the first wave of four to six settlements—Netof, Zivda, Naot HaRim, Diya, Mitzukei Eretz and Kanafey Shachar—expected to begin construction within months, backed by multi‑million‑shekel funding.

At the same time, the long‑standing neighborhood of “Hadar” in Kfar Adumim received official zoning approval after 40 years, formalizing roughly 50 existing housing units, authorizing two new units and regularizing a nearby water‑treatment complex. The move also finalised the municipal status of the Alon settlement, separating it from Kfar Adumim.

Officials highlighted the strategic intent of the projects. Settlement Minister Binyamin Samoritz said the work “deepens our grip on the land and strengthens Israel’s security,” while Binyamin Council Chairman Israel Gantz described the effort as a historic step to secure vital transport corridors and the Jordan Valley. The initiatives are presented as a response to perceived Palestinian attempts to gain control over the area.