West Bank Settler Buys Water Buffaloes to Strengthen Land Presence

Elkana Nechmani, a resident of Givat Or Meir in the West Bank, has chosen to invest in several water buffaloes instead of purchasing a new car, aiming to reinforce Jewish settlement in the area. Nechmani explained to reporter Tal Meir that while he initially planned to buy a Fiat Ibiza, he redirected the funds to acquire the buffaloes, emphasizing that unlike a car, these animals help claim and maintain land continuously.

Nechmani highlighted that each sheep traditionally guards about six dunams annually, but larger animals like cows and water buffaloes can secure ten times that area due to their size and dominant presence. He noted that the buffaloes are robust and require minimal care, making them a practical choice for maintaining the land without commercial profit. The herd, which previously consisted of sheep, goats, and other livestock, is now expanding to include cows and buffaloes to better protect thousands of dunams from potential takeover.

The introduction of water buffaloes, uncommon in this region, has drawn significant attention and curiosity from locals and visitors alike. Nechmani remarked that such animals are usually found in places like the Hula Valley or Africa, making their presence in the West Bank unusual. This initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Jewish presence and settlement in the area through innovative means beyond traditional farming or construction.

Nechmani also clarified that maintaining the herd is not a commercial venture but a communal effort involving himself and friends, focusing on land preservation rather than profit. This unique approach reflects a creative strategy among settlers to assert control and presence on contested land in the West Bank.