Settlements in the West Bank are illegal under international law and have been condemned by the United Nations [File: Ilan Rosenberg/Reuters]
Secret 'Israeli' plan signals major settlement return in West Bank
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- 'Israeli' plan aims to re-establish settlements in northern West Bank with 800 million shekel funding.
- Military bases and infrastructure to be relocated, citing security concerns after 2005 disengagement.
A confidential 'Israeli' document reveals plans to reintroduce settlements and a permanent military presence in northern West Bank, nearly two decades after the 2005 disengagement. The initiative, backed by 'Israeli' Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, carries a projected cost of $240 million over three years.
Read more: 2025 sees surge in West Bank settlements, Palestinian casualties
Military Repositioning
The plan includes relocating the "Menashe" Brigade headquarters from its current base in Kibbutz Ein Shemer to the settlement of Sanur. The move aims to create a permanent military base to protect settlers and "fill the security vacuum" left after the 2005 withdrawal. The current brigade location limits operational reach and is distant from areas such as Jenin and Tulkarm, according to the document.
Yossi Dagan, head of the West Bank Settlements Council, described the move as a "historical correction" and a necessary step to enhance deterrence. "After the evacuation, a security gap emerged. Reestablishing bases in strategic locations will strengthen the defense of central cities and the settlement frontlines," he said.
Read more: 'Israel' approves record West Bank settlement expansion in 2025
Infrastructure and Strategic Goals
The initiative is not limited to military redeployment. It includes infrastructure projects, notably the "Silat" road, which will be implemented by the West Bank Settlements Council. The plan outlines maps for alternative brigade locations and troop deployments along major transport routes, aiming to consolidate 'Israeli' control and security in northern West Bank settlements.
Smotrich, speaking during a field visit to Sanur, framed the plan as extending beyond settlement security. "What we are seeing is not just about the West Bank. It is about the security of Afula, Harish, and Hadera. Returning the army now curbs what we call 'terrorism' in the area," he stated.
The plan underscores the close coordination between the 'Israeli' government and settler movements, reflecting long-term ambitions to strengthen military and settlement presence in contested northern West Bank territories.
