Ex-Shin Bet Chief Yoram Cohen Opposes Unsanctioned West Bank Farms

Yoram Cohen, former head of the Shin Bet security agency and a candidate on the Yesh Atid list led by Gadi Eisenkot, stated his opposition to agricultural farms in the West Bank that were not established by a government decision. Cohen clarified in a Channel 12 interview that he supports structures built through legal government resolutions and their continuation, but opposes those built without such authorization.

When questioned about farms established by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Cohen expressed uncertainty, stating, "I don't know, I'm not sure that everything he built was by government decision. It needs to be checked." This stance could draw criticism from parts of the religious-nationalist public, for whom settlement in the West Bank is a core value.

Cohen also addressed potential political alliances as the deadline for list submissions approaches. He indicated a willingness to unite with other parties to strengthen their bloc and prevent vote wastage, mentioning Gadi Eisenkot's efforts to meet with party leaders. He expressed hope for a "favorable time" for mergers that would improve their electoral prospects.

Cohen's views on settlements have also drawn criticism from the left, with Alon-Li Green of the "Place for Everyone" party accusing him and Eisenkot of supporting continued Israeli control over Palestinians due to their opposition to a Palestinian state. Political commentator Yaakov Bardugo criticized Eisenkot regarding the drafting of ultra-Orthodox men into the military, stating, "You have ruined the ability to integrate the ultra-Orthodox into Israeli society." Bardugo also directly addressed Cohen, saying, "I am ashamed of you, Yoram Cohen, but it is good that you revealed the truth."

Cohen's position on the agricultural farms raises questions about his party's future policy if they join a coalition, particularly regarding the definition of "legal government decision" and the authority responsible for such verification.