Regional Council Head Slams Housing Minister's "Unsubstantiated" Plan to Fire Israel Land Authority Director

Eran Doron, head of the Ramat Negev Regional Council, has publicly criticized Housing and Construction Minister Yitzhak Goldknopf's alleged intention to dismiss Yehuda Eliyahu from his position as director of the Israel Land Authority (ILA). Doron asserted that the minister's motives are "unsubstantiated" and not in the public interest, particularly concerning settlement efforts.

Despite Eliyahu not having prior experience within the council or a previous role there, Doron expressed strong support for him. He highlighted Eliyahu's "correct value system," especially for the settlement movement, and his commitment to the ILA serving the public rather than acting as a "bank." Doron argued that this approach aligns with global trends where land management is often under local authority control, enabling development and settlement.

Doron further defended Eliyahu's performance, stating he is doing an "excellent job." He specifically pointed to Eliyahu's efforts in resolving a long-standing issue, referred to as "clause 86," which had stalled settlement development in remote areas. Eliyahu, according to Doron, ensured that land allocations and sales contracts were processed, and that isolated farms in the region would not face excessive bureaucratic hurdles, emphasizing that these settlers are engaged in "Zionism" and should not be penalized for it.

Doron noted that support for Eliyahu transcends political divides and regions, with numerous local authority heads from across the political spectrum backing him. He questioned the minister's decision, suggesting that if so many diverse local leaders agree on Eliyahu's merits, their collective opinion might be correct. When asked about potential next steps if Eliyahu is dismissed, Doron admitted uncertainty but predicted a negative outcome.