Israel Grants Official Status to West Bank Settlements Karmi Oz and Sahalav

The Israeli Ministry of Interior has officially granted settlement symbols to two West Bank communities, Karmi Oz and Sahalav, completing their formal recognition process. Karmi Oz, formerly known as Givat Harel, is located in the Mateh Binyamin Regional Council and was established approximately 28 years ago as part of the young settlement communities. Receiving the settlement symbol allows Karmi Oz to operate and develop as an independent settlement.

Sahalav, situated within the Shomron Regional Council, received approval from the Security Cabinet in December 2025. The current designation enables Sahalav to proceed independently, with plans to develop a city spanning about 4,500 dunams.

Finance Minister and Religious Zionism Party leader Bezalel Smotrich praised the announcement, noting that within about six months, 39 settlement symbols have been granted as part of establishing new settlements and formalizing young communities. He described this as a significant achievement resulting from the efforts of many dedicated partners. Smotrich emphasized the ongoing growth of settlements in Judea and Samaria, contrasting it with the previous government’s policies, which he said aimed to dismantle settlements and establish a Palestinian state. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Interior, the regional military commander, the Civil Administration, and the Settlement Administration for leading these initiatives.