Katz vows 'revolution in settlement' to bolster Galilee security

Defense Minister Israel Katz has vowed to lead a "revolution in settlement" in the Galilee, emphasizing its importance as both a national and security objective. Speaking at an emergency conference organized by the Forum for Judaizing the Galilee, Katz drew parallels to settlement efforts in Judea and Samaria, promising similar action in the Galilee.

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The Galilee is not only a national objective - it is a security objective. Strong Jewish settlement in the Galilee is an inseparable part of the resilience and security of the State of Israel.

The conference, hosted by Karmiel Mayor Moshe Koninsky and initiated by Forum chair Dr. Ruth Cabasa Abramson, aimed to establish a decade-long strategy for encouraging Jewish settlement. The proposed plan addresses four key areas: demographics, land, quality of life, and law enforcement. It seeks to support urban settlements and communities that maintain a Jewish character, while also promoting population balance for social cohesion.

To facilitate new settlements, the forum proposed measures such as combating illegal construction, expanding the authority and budgets of construction bodies, and reviewing construction plans in Arab sectors based on current data. Improving quality of life and employment, particularly in high-tech industries, is also highlighted as crucial for attracting new residents. To safeguard these development efforts, the plan includes law enforcement operations targeting illegal firearms and organized crime, suggesting dedicated courts and increased investigator numbers.

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Just as we led an unprecedented revolution in settlement in Judea and Samaria through the establishment of communities and farms, strengthening security, and a determined fight against terrorism - so we will act in the Galilee.

The forum stressed the need for a coordinating body within the Prime Minister's Office and secured, long-term funding to implement the plan effectively. Abramson described the situation in the Galilee as an "emergency" that has reached a "point of no return," underscoring the urgency of the proposed measures.

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