Israel Demolishes Illegal Structures on 20 Acres in Samaria and Hebron

The Israeli Civil Administration demolished illegal structures and plantings on approximately 20 acres of state land in Samaria and Hebron on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The operation, conducted near the settlement of Mekada in the Hebron Mountains and near Shira in Samaria, targeted unauthorized constructions and plantings adjacent to new residential communities and existing settlements.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who also holds the position of Defense Minister, stated that these actions are part of a broad campaign against illegal construction. He emphasized that the goal is to prevent the seizure of strategically important territories and to ensure the security and development of Jewish communities in the region.

Smotrich highlighted the significance of these measures for strengthening the country's position, noting that recent years have seen unprecedented efforts in settlement development and the demolition of illegal structures. He also pointed to the strategic importance of these operations for regional security. The demolitions are occurring concurrently with announcements of new settlement establishment and legislative advancements.