Mossad Chief Backs Joint Industrial Zone for Ramat Negev and Bir al-Saba Amid Security Concerns

A plan to establish a joint industrial zone spanning about 200 dunams for the Bedouin village Bir al-Saba and the Ramat Negev Regional Council has sparked debate due to concerns over crime and smuggling in the area. The initiative, long dormant, gained new momentum after Neve Midbar Regional Council head Salama Abu Adisan sought cooperation with Ramat Negev to advance the project.

During a recent Ramat Negev council meeting, some members expressed reservations about collaborating with Bir al-Saba, citing prevalent issues such as weapons and drug smuggling. However, the plan received significant backing from Mossad chief Roman Gofman, who highlighted the strategic importance of economic development in the region. Gofman, familiar with the area from his military service, emphasized that expanding employment opportunities could reduce social tensions and weaken criminal influences, while urging a phased and responsible approach with proper oversight.

Itzik Tzur, CEO of the Ramat Negev Economic Development Company, acknowledged the area's criminal challenges but stressed that thousands of law-abiding residents in Bir al-Saba need jobs, which the project aims to provide. Opponents like council member Avi Friza warned the cooperation might send the wrong message given enforcement difficulties, but council head Eran Doron argued that supporting law-abiding citizens is both a security and civic priority.

Supporters pointed to the relative success of the "Idan HaNegev" industrial zone, shared by Rahat, Lehavim, and Bnei Shimon, as a regional cooperation model despite its own challenges. The proposal was ultimately approved by a 9-3 vote. Abu Adisan welcomed the decision, stating that economic security fosters personal security and that creating jobs can transform the community and strengthen the entire region.