New Illegal Settlements Emerge Near Havat Gilad Following Deadly Terror Attack

In the wake of a deadly terror attack near the West Bank village of Kfar Tapuach that claimed the lives of Benyahu Malat and Lt. Col. Yuval Ezra, six new illegal outposts were rapidly established within two days. Heavy machinery arrived hours after the attack to open access roads, enabling settlers to set up these new points, with local residents promising further expansion. The initiative began after a fire, believed to be arson, destroyed about 30 homes and businesses in Havat Gilad, accelerating plans to create additional settlements as a form of response and territorial assertion.

One of the new outposts, named "Boneh Kfarur" in memory of Benyahu Malat, was established on the archaeological site of Khirbet Kfarur in Area C of the West Bank. It relies on solar power and plans to introduce sheep herding to solidify facts on the ground. Five of the six new outposts are located in Area C, with one at the attack site in Area B. Residents emphasize the strategic importance of controlling open spaces, viewing settlement expansion as a continuation of their historical and national mission.

Local settler leaders, including Itai Zar and David Cohen, frame these developments as a direct response to ongoing violence and a continuation of a legacy of establishing settlements after attacks on their families. While Cohen condemns violence and illegal acts, he expresses understanding for nationalist crime following the attack and criticizes the labeling of such acts as terrorism. The settlers dismiss concerns about international criticism or potential halts to construction, arguing that maintaining a Jewish presence is essential to prevent future attacks like the one on October 7.

The Israel Defense Forces stated that outpost evacuations are conducted according to situational assessments and government directives. Meanwhile, a large, unauthorized hike is planned in the Havat Gilad and Kfar Tapuach area, with hundreds expected to attend. The IDF is coordinating with organizers to prepare for the event, emphasizing that entry into Area A is illegal and dangerous.

This rapid establishment of new outposts highlights the ongoing tensions and complexities in the West Bank following violent incidents, reflecting settler determination to expand presence despite legal and diplomatic challenges.