New Israeli Settlement Neot Harim Established in Binyamin Region

Fourteen pioneering families have settled in the newly established Israeli settlement of Neot Harim, located in the western Binyamin region. The official opening ceremony, which included the laying of the cornerstone, was attended by government members, Knesset deputies, rabbis, and leaders of the settlement movement. The event coincided with the 30th day since the death of local resident Netanel Shakron near the Ein Riy source. Situated between the settlements of Neve Tzuf and Nachliel, Neot Harim is the first Israeli settlement created in this sector in decades. Its location is considered strategically important for the security of central Israel, providing territorial contiguity and control over an area used by civilian aircraft approaching Ben Gurion International Airport. Neot Harim is the third new settlement opened in Binyamin in the past six months, approved by Israel's security cabinet, which sanctioned the construction of thirteen such points in the region. Prior to settlement, extensive land work and the construction of a 3.5-kilometer asphalt access road were completed. Israel Gantz, Head of the Binyamin Regional Council, addressed the attendees, offering support to Shakron's family and stating that the settlement's establishment is a response to terrorism aimed at intimidation. He emphasized that expanding presence in Neot Harim enhances the security of the densely populated Gush Dan metropolitan area. Yishai Merling, Chairman of the Settlements Department, highlighted that the new outpost alters the region's map, connecting the Talmonim bloc and the northern Binyamin sector into a continuous line. Merling added that development efforts are ongoing, including road networks, infrastructure, and permanent housing construction to transform the settlement into a large residential area.