Israeli Council Head Urges Trump to Recognize Sovereignty Over Judea and Samaria

The head of the Binyamin Regional Council and Chairman of the Yesha Council, Gantz, called on U.S. President Donald Trump to recognize Israeli sovereignty over Judea and Samaria. Gantz made the appeal while receiving the annual Covenant Award in Jerusalem during a global summit of parliamentarians and leaders. The award was presented by leaders of the All Nations Convocation organization for "steadfast leadership and defense of communities in Judea and Samaria."

During his acceptance speech, Gantz referenced past "unthinkable" decisions by the U.S. administration, such as moving the embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, arguing these proved such actions are feasible. He stated that a U.S. decision to recognize Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria would resolve an issue that has remained open for 59 years, asserting that now is the time for such a step.

The Covenant Award is annually presented to prominent Israeli public figures and politicians. Previous recipients include government ministers, ambassadors, and mayors. Gantz accepted the award on behalf of the residents of Binyamin, IDF soldiers, and a new generation of Israelis "who have stopped apologizing for returning to their homeland."

Officials from the Binyamin Regional Council noted that the international recognition stems from years of work by the council's international department, which engages with foreign delegations, fosters parliamentary ties, counters delegitimization efforts, and promotes regional economic and infrastructural development.