Defense Minister Katz Calls for Policy Review on Administrative Measures Against West Bank Settlers

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz held a closed-door meeting to discuss the recent surge in administrative actions against settlers in the West Bank. Katz announced his intention to reconsider the use of such administrative measures, emphasizing that the proper approach should involve criminal investigations and legal proceedings when evidence exists. This discussion was prompted by numerous complaints, including the case of hilltop activist Tal Yinon Dardik, who is on a hunger strike after being issued an administrative residence restriction order.

Katz recalled that when he previously canceled administrative detention orders against settlers, his goal was to shift the handling of suspected offenses to formal criminal investigations and trials, thereby removing the stigma from the entire settler community. He stressed that this policy remains his clear stance today. However, Katz expressed concern that recently the balance has been disrupted by the widespread use of other administrative powers by the regional military commander without due process, except in rare cases.

Regarding Dardik's detention, Katz described the situation as "beyond reasonable bounds" and called for appropriate regulation by adjusting the order itself. He also stated that if Dardik committed offenses, criminal procedures should be followed as with any Israeli citizen. Sources close to Katz told Channel 7 that he plans to hold a comprehensive review soon of the Central Command's actions to establish a clear policy. The goal is to enable law enforcement to address violence and vigilantism through the police and courts, while preventing disproportionate harm to settlers and suspects, including violations of basic rights and stigmatization of the community.