Activists Defend Historical Jewish Ties and Settlement Efforts in Bashan Region

In response to Menachem Horowitz's criticism of settlement attempts in Bashan, a region east of the Jordan River, activists emphasize the area's deep historical and emotional significance to the Jewish people. Horowitz had labeled settlement efforts in Bashan as illegal and unrealistic, contrasting them with what he sees as understandable nostalgia driving settlement in Gaza. However, defenders argue that Bashan is part of the ancient tribal lands of Manasseh, conquered by Moses and historically inhabited by Jewish communities, including the city of Neve, which remains a landmark today.

The region was a focus of early Zionist settlement efforts, supported by figures like Baron Rothschild who purchased land there, and prominent Zionists such as Yitzhak Ben-Zvi and Shaul Avigur. Despite setbacks due to French colonial restrictions and Arab opposition, the Jewish National Fund still holds land in Bashan. The Zionist movement included Bashan in its territorial claims during the 1919 Paris Peace Conference.

Following Israel's capture of parts of Bashan, including Quneitra and the Golan Heights during the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War, there was significant resistance to relinquishing these territories. Settlements like Keshet were established, supported by religious leaders and activists opposing land concessions. Although some areas were handed over to international forces, recent efforts by "Bashan pioneers" aim to resettle these lands after the fall of the Assad regime.

The activists reject accusations of illegality, noting that young settlers maintain respectful relations with soldiers and receive their support. While the future of settlement in Gaza, Bashan, and Lebanon remains uncertain, they stress the importance of faith, action, and seizing historical opportunities. Quoting Rabbi Neriah, they highlight the value of dreaming big and turning those dreams into reality through persistent effort.