Ex-Shin Bet Chief Calls for Evacuating Unauthorized West Bank Outposts

Former Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen, who served as a senior aide to Benny Gantz, has called for the evacuation of some agricultural farms and settlements in the West Bank that were not established by government decision. Cohen made the remarks on the "Meet the Press" program, specifically referencing outposts built by Bezalel Smotrich in the West Bank.

The Likud party responded sharply to Cohen's statements, interpreting them as a revelation of Benny Gantz's alleged intentions. "Another secret is out of the bag," the Likud stated. "Gantz's number two reveals the truth: Gantz will establish a left-wing government that will destroy the settlement enterprise. Gantz will establish a Palestinian state government."

Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party, also reacted to Cohen's comments, urging former IDF General Ofek Winter to join a unified national camp. Smotrich stated, "For many months I have warned that Gantz's government will evacuate the settlements and farms we established. Now Yoram Cohen, a senior figure in Gantz's party, is saying it out loud. The only way to ensure this disaster does not happen is for the right not to waste precious votes."

Smotrich continued his appeal to Winter, urging him to "listen carefully to Yoram Cohen's grave words and understand the magnitude of the hour. If Winter runs alone, the settlements we established are in danger. If he takes responsibility and joins the unity as the public desires, we will win, God willing. It is time for unity and responsibility in the national camp."