Israeli Defense Minister Orders Police to Take Over Civil Enforcement in West Bank Amid Settlement Farm Regulation Efforts

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to develop a comprehensive plan within two weeks to transfer responsibility for civil enforcement in the West Bank to the Israel Police. This decision follows incidents of law violations and violence by a small minority of settlers. Katz made this announcement after a security meeting on June 4, 2023, which included IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir and other senior defense officials.

The meeting reviewed the current security situation, highlighting a continued decline in Palestinian terrorism, particularly after recent operations in northern Samaria. Katz praised the IDF's counterterrorism efforts but emphasized the need to address illegal activities and violence by some settlers, stating, "We will not allow violence and taking the law into one’s own hands by unauthorized groups."

Alongside shifting enforcement duties to the police, the government plans to expedite the legalization of certain West Bank farms, provided they comply with legal and security requirements. Central Command Commander supported establishing and regulating farms in appropriate locations, viewing them as beneficial to regional security. Legal advisors are working on regulations to define conditions under which existing farms can be legalized.

Additionally, the defense establishment is considering economic sanctions against individuals whose unauthorized activities impose significant costs on the security system. These financial measures would complement, not replace, potential criminal proceedings. Katz also reaffirmed that expanding settlements in the West Bank remains a key security strategy.

This policy shift marks a significant change in managing civil law enforcement in the West Bank, aiming to reduce military involvement in civilian matters while strengthening legal oversight and settlement regulation.