Smotrich Secures Permanent Settlement Administration in Defense Ministry

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is advancing a significant move to institutionalize the settlement administration in the West Bank by making it a permanent body within the Defense Ministry. This change will ensure the administration's continuity regardless of future election outcomes or changes in ministerial leadership. The term of Hillel Rot, deputy head of the Civil Administration, will also be extended by two years, from four to six years, securing his role beyond the upcoming elections. The decision was coordinated with the Defense Ministry and the Civil Service Commission and approved by the commission's service committee led by Doron Cohen. The goal is to maintain a strong civilian governance role in the lives of West Bank residents, rather than relegating it to a secondary position alongside security components. The move comes amid concerns that a future left-wing government led by Gadi Eizenkot might reverse the settlement policies promoted by Smotrich. Supporters of Smotrich view this institutionalization and leadership extension as a way to create a stable foundation that will prevent policy rollbacks and ensure ongoing civilian administrative functions in the region beyond Smotrich's tenure.