Gantz Receives 'Covenant Award' for Support of West Bank Settlements
Israel Gantz, head of the Benjamin Regional Council, was honored with the prestigious 'Covenant Award' for his "dedicated leadership and unwavering support for the residents and communities of Judea and Samaria." The organization presenting the award cited Gantz's commitment to the "covenant of the God of Israel" and his defense of the region.
During the ceremony, Gantz received the award from Tom Hess, the organization's founder and president. He then addressed international leaders and representatives, outlining his vision for the future of the Land of Israel and how global supporters can bolster settlement efforts. Gantz referenced former U.S. President Trump's policies, noting that actions once deemed impossible, such as moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, had become reality. He urged for American recognition of Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, stating it would resolve a long-standing international ambiguity and encourage other nations to follow suit.
Gantz emphasized that the time for such recognition is now, not after future elections or conferences, and certainly not after another generation pays the price of waiting. He argued that opponents of sovereignty recognition will always find reasons to delay, regardless of the timing.
The 'Covenant Award' is presented annually to a prominent Israeli figure, with past recipients including government ministers, Knesset members, ambassadors, and local authority heads. Gantz stated he accepted the award not for himself, but on behalf of the 85,000 residents of Benjamin and the broader settlement movement in Judea and Samaria, representing "a generation that has decided to stop apologizing for returning home."
This recognition follows Gantz's recent ranking by The Jerusalem Post as one of the 50 most influential Jews globally, highlighting his impact on the future of settlements and sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, and his political activities in the United States. The newspaper suggested Gantz would be a key figure in implementing Israeli sovereignty if it were enacted.
The award and the ranking stem from extensive international outreach by Gantz and the Benjamin Council's foreign desk. This initiative involves engaging with decision-makers, public officials, and leaders worldwide, hosting delegations, and fostering political and economic partnerships. The council aims to promote international support for Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria, strengthen the settlement movement, counter boycott efforts, and engage global partners in developing the Benjamin region.
