Israelis Leave Central Israel to Establish New Jordan Valley Settlement

A diverse cross-section of Israeli society, including secular and religious individuals from cities and rural areas across the country, has established the new settlement of Batron in the Jordan Valley. The residents, who have moved from central Israel, the north, the south, and existing Jordan Valley communities, are building their lives in a challenging but hopeful environment. The settlement plans include a multi-purpose building for a synagogue, social club, grocery store, clinic, and food truck, alongside economic ventures focused on traditional Medjool date agriculture and renewable energy from solar and wind power.

Personal stories highlight the motivations behind the move. One resident, who previously worked in the nightlife industry in central Israel, relocated with his wife and four young children after his brother was killed in Operation Protective Edge in 2014. The loss prompted soul-searching and a renewed commitment to Zionism, with the events of October 7th solidifying his decision to "act and build." Another couple, who manage a travel and lifestyle Instagram account, are embarking on a "second chapter" by helping to found this new agricultural settlement, a development not seen in Israel for about two decades. One resident prefers the term "settler" over "settler" (מתנחלת), emphasizing that the land is state-owned and the settlement is legal and approved.

The new community faces daily challenges such as dust, developing infrastructure, generator power outages, and temporary water shortages. Security is also a concern due to the proximity to the border and Highway 90. However, residents, many of whom are combat veterans, assert that their presence above Highway 90 enhances security for travelers. They express optimism for the future, envisioning a thriving settlement with agricultural lands, green spaces, and children working the fields within a decade, continuing the Zionist vision.

Batron was established as part of a government decision to approve 22 new settlements in Judea, Samaria, and the Jordan Valley, aimed at strengthening Israel's eastern border. The settlement's name is derived from the geological feature "Chaver Chasms" in the Jordan Rift Valley, a location mentioned in the Book of Samuel. Situated approximately 25 minutes from Beit She'an and near the border with Jordan, 18 of the initial 20 families have already begun settling the land.