Founder of Neve Dekalim Warns of Possible Future Evacuations in West Bank Despite October Lessons

Professor Avi Levi, a founder of Neve Dekalim and president of the Shaanan Academic College of Education, reflected on the 21st anniversary of the evacuation from Gush Katif and northern Samaria. He expressed concern that despite lessons from the October conflict, a similar forced evacuation scenario in the West Bank could still occur. Levi explained that until recently, he believed such an event was a one-time historical mistake due to national and leadership failure, and that the October conflict had reshaped perceptions about trusting the enemy and reduced the likelihood of another evacuation.

However, Levi now sees rising hatred, extremist rhetoric, and a distancing from Israel's core values, which make the possibility of future evacuations more real. He warned that even small political factions, like the Democratic Party with 10-13 Knesset seats openly supporting evacuation, could influence government decisions. More concerning to him are groups that do not openly declare such intentions but harbor similar views, potentially pushing for gradual evacuation policies under political cover.

Levi acknowledged the significant growth and strength of settlements in the West Bank, which complicates any evacuation efforts. Yet, he recalled how 21 years ago, no one expected the government to forcibly remove 20 settlements with 12,000 residents, showing that size alone does not guarantee safety. He suggested that peripheral settlements remain vulnerable and that a gradual process could eventually threaten even larger blocs like Gush Etzion.

Regarding the aftermath of the October conflict, Levi noted that not all residents near Gaza have changed their views on security and the Palestinian state, and those who have may revert under political pressure from parties like the Democrats. He emphasized that any future evacuation would be difficult due to the resilience and strengthened spirit of settlers since the last expulsion.

Levi also critiqued the right-wing for lacking a clear, firm political alternative for nearly two decades, though he believes the October events have sparked a political awakening. He expressed hope that the right will eventually consolidate a clear path supported by the public, while the political system undergoes a necessary maturation process following the collapse of long-standing paradigms.