Massive Industrial Zone Approved Near Gush Etzion
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
A new industrial zone, "Mevo'ot Lachish," spanning over 3,000 dunams near the Tarkumiya crossing in Gush Etzion, has received approval for its territorial jurisdiction. The project is expected to generate over 100 million shekels annually for the Gush Etzion Regional Council and enhance regional security. Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Council Head Yaron Rosenthal lauded the development as a significant economic and security boost.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A new industrial zone, "Mevo'ot Lachish," will be established on 3,039 dunams near the Tarkumiya crossing.
- The project received approval for territorial jurisdiction from the Commander of the Central District.
- The industrial zone is projected to generate over 100 million shekels annually for the Gush Etzion Regional Council.
- Minister Bezalel Smotrich highlighted the project's economic and security benefits.
- The initiative is seen as strengthening Israeli presence in the seam line area.
A new, large-scale industrial zone named "Mevo'ot Lachish" is set to be established on 3,039 dunams (approximately 750 acres) north of the Tarkumiya crossing, near Gush Etzion. The project, spearheaded by the Settlement Administration and the Civil Administration, has advanced significantly with the signing of the territorial jurisdiction by the Commander of the Central District, Major General Avi Bluth.
The Gush Etzion Regional Council views this initiative as a major economic growth engine for decades to come, expected to expand employment and commerce, bolster the council's financial stability, and support population growth in the area. Beyond its economic impact, the industrial zone's proximity to the Tarkumiya crossing is intended to strengthen the Israeli presence in the area and along the seam line.
Minister of Finance and Minister in the Ministry of Defense, Bezalel Smotrich, praised the development, calling it "tremendous news for the settlement and for the residents of Gush Etzion." He stated that alongside the promotion of over 60,000 housing units in the West Bank, the government is advancing industrial and commercial zones to create jobs and ensure economic resilience. Smotrich also highlighted the project's security significance, asserting it will reinforce the seam line area and Tarkumiya crossing, and protect the road to Kiryat Gat. He contrasted this development with political opponents aiming to establish a Palestinian state, emphasizing a commitment to building and developing the land.
Yaron Rosenthal, Head of the Gush Etzion Regional Council, projected that the industrial zone will generate over 100 million shekels annually for the council, making Gush Etzion one of the strongest regional councils in Israel. He expressed gratitude to Minister Smotrich and his team for their role in advancing the project and for preventing Arab construction in the area, thereby strengthening the Jewish presence.