Struck Warns of Reversal of Government's Settlement and Security Gains
Orit Struck, a prominent figure in the settlement movement, has issued a stark warning that the achievements of the current Israeli government in settlement expansion and security could be easily reversed by a different administration. She emphasized that the responsibility for the nation's future rests with the public and invoked the High Holy Days prayer, "And on Your deeds it shall be said," to underscore the gravity of the upcoming decisions.
Struck highlighted the expansion of settlements in Judea and Samaria, describing the reconnection with the land as a fulfillment of historical presence rather than a new endeavor. She expressed concern that a future government might choose to abandon or uproot settlements, echoing past decisions. This sentiment was reiterated in discussions about strategic projects to double the population along Israel's eastern and western borders, where she noted the vulnerability of such initiatives to neglect if they lack electoral value.
She also addressed the situation on the northern border, acknowledging efforts to dismantle Hezbollah's infrastructure while cautioning that a government might withdraw the IDF, abandon security zones, and allow Hezbollah to rearm. Struck drew parallels to the past, recalling previous governments that she believes made detrimental security decisions.
Furthermore, Struck pointed to progress in the Negev, including new settlement initiatives and the passage of the "Struck Law" for Negev development, but warned of a potential return to neglect or allowing Islamic movements to dictate policy in the region. She also mentioned successes in the Galilee, such as halting the expansion of a town, but expressed fears that a future government could revert to "post-Zionist" planning concepts that lead to territorial loss.
In national security discussions, Struck referenced Prime Minister Netanyahu's assertion that the Middle East's landscape has changed, but warned that a different government might pursue policies like withdrawing from Gaza or surrendering to Hamas. She concluded by stressing that the public's vote is crucial in determining whether Israel chooses a path of security and growth or faces failure and reversal of its current trajectory, urging citizens to actively participate in ensuring the nation chooses the "straight path."
