Benjamin Settlement Malakhi HaShalom Officially Recognized After 11 Years Following Terror Attack

Eleven years after its establishment following a deadly terror attack, the Benjamin settlement of Malakhi HaShalom has been officially recognized as a formal community. The celebratory event took place recently with residents, founding families, public officials, and members of the Knesset gathering to mark the completion of the settlement's formalization process. Currently home to about 40 families, Malakhi HaShalom serves as a vibrant community hub for surrounding farms in eastern Benjamin.

The settlement's origins trace back to 1976 with the establishment of the Nahal outpost Mavo Shilo. In 2015, just one day after the murder of Malakhi Rozenfeld in a terrorist attack, a group of pioneers settled the area, naming it after Rozenfeld and Shalom (Shuli) Har Melach, both victims of terror. The Israeli government officially recognized the settlement in 2023, and all formalization stages were completed this week.

The Benjamin Regional Council views this recognition as the first step in a broader settlement expansion plan in eastern Benjamin, which includes new communities such as Knafey Shachar and Matzukei Eretz along Alon Road. Israel Gantz, head of the Benjamin Council and chairman of the Yesha Council, described the day as "a day of historic justice," emphasizing the ongoing commitment to build and settle the land in memory of those who fell.

Settlement and National Missions Minister Orit Strook praised Malakhi HaShalom as a symbol of love for the land overcoming obstacles, while Knesset member Limor Son Har Melach called the recognition a significant national milestone and a Zionist response to attempts to remove Jewish presence. Yohanan Rosenzweig, chairman of the settlement, expressed gratitude for the support received and optimism for continued growth and development.

The event highlighted the resilience and determination of the community to thrive despite past tragedies, with leaders and families united in their commitment to the land and its future.