Thousands March in Samaria to Mark Return to Rebuilt Settlements

Thousands of Israelis gathered in the northern Samaria region on Thursday for the annual Samaria March, a key event during the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday. The day began with a festive Hallel prayer service in the newly established settlement of Noa. The march itself commenced at 11:00 AM, starting from the settlements of Ganim and Kadim, which were evacuated as part of the 2005 disengagement plan and have been re-established this year.

Participants included government ministers, Knesset members, rabbis, public figures, and thousands of families from across the country. The marchers traversed the area from which four northern Samaria settlements were uprooted 21 years ago, symbolizing the renewal of Israeli settlement in the region. The route is fully secured by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

By 1:00 PM, the marchers were expected to arrive in Kadim, where a rally was scheduled. The rally featured speeches from public figures and a performance by singer Beni Landau, who was joined by Shira David Gadsi. The event is considered the highlight of Sukkot celebrations in Samaria.

Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan stated, "The thousands who arrived here this morning prove that the people of Israel have not given up on northern Samaria. The return to Ganim and Kadim is the story of an entire nation reconnecting with a region from which we were uprooted. Today, the people of Israel are here, marching with us and becoming part of the momentum of return to northern Samaria. We are correcting a historical injustice together and building a future here. Our vision is to see northern Samaria flourish again, with thousands of families, thriving communities, and full lives. The people of Israel are with us, and today you can see it with your own eyes, the people of Israel are alive and returning to themselves."

Following the rally and concert, participants departed. Parking was arranged at the Ganim junction, with shuttle services provided to transport attendees. Access to the area was via the Gilboa crossing.