Civil Administration Evicts Settlers from State Land Designated for West Bank Towns

The Civil Administration's supervision unit, operating under Minister Bezalel Smotrich, conducted an enforcement operation in northern Samaria, clearing unauthorized olive tree plantings and structures from state land designated for the expansion of the settlements of Ganim and Kadim. Approximately 500 olive trees were planted across 250 dunams (about 62 acres), and unauthorized buildings and infrastructure were erected within 100 meters of planned new neighborhoods.

The operation aimed to prevent settlers from establishing facts on the ground that could hinder future development plans for the settlements. The Civil Administration stated that early intervention is crucial to stop agricultural land grabs and prevent them from complicating the realization of development projects.

Minister Smotrich, responsible for the unit within the Defense Ministry, framed the action as part of a policy to protect state lands and thwart attempts to undermine settlement expansion and establish a Palestinian state. "State lands are not ownerless," Smotrich declared. "Anyone trying to take them over and establish facts on the ground will encounter the State of Israel and a determined enforcement system."

He emphasized the policy of identifying, enforcing, and thwarting such attempts, vowing to continue acting decisively against illegal construction and land grabs to strengthen governance and preserve land for future generations. Smotrich thanked the supervision unit and the settlement administration for their professional and determined work.