Samaria Council Head Seeks European Support Amid EU Presidency Shift and Sanctions Fears

Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council in the West Bank, is actively working to rally support from European parliament members for Israel amid concerns over potential sanctions targeting individuals and entities in Judea and Samaria. Speaking to ynet on Monday, Dagan acknowledged the perception that "the whole world is against us," but emphasized that this is not the case and stressed the importance of building coalitions and investing in public diplomacy.

During a recent visit to Romania, Dagan met with European parliamentarians who expressed backing for Israel. He highlighted that many people worldwide recognize the Jewish people's right to their homeland and are increasingly alarmed by the threat of radical Islam, which endangers Israel, Europe, and the United States. Dagan cited Slovenia as an example where the new prime minister, formerly an opposition leader who visited Samaria, reversed many anti-Israel policies of his predecessor. He urged Israel to invest in international advocacy similarly to how Qatar and Saudi Arabia invest billions in the U.S.

Dagan acknowledged the complex reality, noting persistent antisemitism and hostile funding from countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Iran aimed at undermining Israel and fomenting Christian-Jewish discord. He described the situation as a dual war: one fought with tanks and another against misinformation and perception. He called for a national Israeli effort to strengthen international alliances, pointing to legislative advances in nearly 20 U.S. states recognizing Judea and Samaria and a congressional lobby with over 30 members.

Addressing recent violence and the aftermath of the October 7 attacks, Dagan stressed the need for a "strong military arm" and the return of settlements, including in Gaza's northern areas, to send a clear security message. He rejected despair over U.S. political shifts, asserting that while challenges exist, especially due to Gulf state influence, more Americans support Israel than oppose it. Ultimately, he said, decisions on sovereignty and security rest in Jerusalem, and Israel must lead efforts to build international coalitions and public understanding to prevail.