US Lawmakers Tour Northern West Bank Amid Diplomatic Activity

A delegation of dozens of US lawmakers conducted an unusual and in-depth tour of the northern West Bank region this week, coinciding with the US ambassador's visit to the Palestinian village of Turmus Ayya. The delegation was accompanied throughout their visit by Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council. Dagan, who has been actively involved in promoting the region, viewed the visit as an opportunity to present the complex geopolitical reality of Samaria directly to Washington decision-makers. He aimed to bypass official information channels, which he believes do not always fully reflect the situation on the ground.

A key moment of the visit, captured in an accompanying photograph, occurred at a strategic overlook offering views of the Jordan Valley and the Beit She'an Valley. During this stop, Dagan provided detailed explanations of the current situation. He emphasized to the lawmakers that continued development and construction in Samaria are not merely ideological matters but are essential for Israel's security and existence. Dagan warned that relinquishing control over the area could pose an immediate threat to the entire country.