First Families Settle New 'Shalem' Community in Samaria

The first families have moved into the new Israeli settlement of "Shalem" in the northern West Bank, marking the establishment of the ninth community under the Samaria Regional Council's "Connection Plan." The settlement is situated near the Palestinian city of Nablus (Shechem) and is named after the biblical city of Shalem mentioned in the Book of Genesis. The move follows a government decision made about a year ago, spearheaded by Ministers Israel Katz and Bezalel Smotrich, to establish 19 new communities in the northern Samaria region.

The "Connection Plan" is part of a broader strategic initiative by the Samaria Regional Council called "One Million in Samaria," aiming to bolster Israeli settlement in the area. Trucks carrying equipment have arrived at the site, and the founding group of families are settling into prefabricated structures. The establishment of Shalem is seen as a historical milestone, particularly for those who were evacuated from the Gush Katif settlements in Gaza in 2005, with some of the new communities in Samaria being replacements for those evacuated settlements.

"You are the first pioneers, thousands will follow you," said Yossi Dagan, Head of the Samaria Regional Council, addressing the new residents. Achinoam Mizrahi, a resident, expressed excitement, stating, "We are thrilled! May we grow and become a large settlement." Another resident, Ofir Hazzi, emphasized the connection to historical roots, noting the proximity to Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal and the biblical narrative of Jacob arriving in Shalem.

A formal inauguration ceremony is scheduled for later today, with participation expected from government ministers, Knesset members, public figures, and leaders of the "Amana" movement and the settlement division. The establishment of Shalem is strategically located to strengthen the Israeli presence in the northern West Bank.