Rabbi Dov Lior Returns by Helicopter to Rebuilt Sha-Nur 21 Years After Expulsion

Rabbi Dov Lior, a senior figure in Religious Zionism, visited the renewed settlement of Sha-Nur in northern Samaria on Tuesday, 21 years after its destruction and the expulsion of its residents. Due to health reasons, Rabbi Lior arrived by helicopter for this emotional and symbolic visit, marking his first return since the expulsion. Upon arrival at the Sha-Nur fortress, he recited the traditional blessing "Matziv Gvul Almah," said upon seeing a Jewish settlement rebuilt in the Land of Israel after destruction.

This visit closed a historical circle. On the day of the expulsion, Rabbi Lior tore his shirt on the roof of the Sha-Nur fortress in front of Shomron Regional Council head Yossi Dagan and other activists, instructing them to say "Baruch Dayan HaEmet" (Blessed is the True Judge) over the destruction. At that moment, Dagan vowed, "As long as we breathe, we will do everything to return here," a vow echoed by all present.

Weeks ago, Dagan visited Rabbi Lior at his home, presenting him with an original stone from the Sha-Nur fortress engraved with the words "Matziv Gvul Almah" and inviting him to bless the site after its resettlement. During the visit, Rabbi Lior praised the settlers as pioneers leading the way, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding destroyed communities to redeem the land. He expressed gratitude for witnessing the settlement's revival and hoped to see all 19 original communities restored, which he said would guarantee true peace and security.

Yossi Dagan reiterated the commitment made 21 years ago, stating that the Jewish population in northern Samaria would increase thirtyfold compared to before the expulsions. He described Rabbi Lior's blessing as a historic moment for the Jewish people and expressed thanks for the opportunity to begin rectifying the injustice of the expulsion. Dagan pledged to continue building, holding on, and revitalizing all of northern Samaria until full return to all uprooted settlements is achieved.