Religious Zionist Party marks ‘Settlement Revolution’ with pledge to expand communities and outposts.
The Religious Zionist Party convened hundreds of local leaders Tuesday evening at the Psagot Winery to mark what it called the “Settlement Revolution,” a campaign focused on expanding Jewish communities across Judea and Samaria.
Party chairman and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich presented what he described as the “2030 Settlement Plan,” outlining goals that include establishing dozens of new communities, strengthening farm outposts, and reinforcing Israeli control in strategic areas.
Smotrich revealed that 17 families are expected to return to Sa-Nur next month, signaling renewed activity in previously evacuated areas.
In his address, Smotrich framed settlement expansion as a security imperative. He argued that geography and topography in Judea and Samaria directly affect Israel’s population centers and stressed that preventing the emergence of hostile entities in the region is essential for long-term stability.
He referenced past conflicts and stated that the map of communities demonstrates what he views as strategic depth protecting cities across Israel.
Smotrich also declared that one of the party’s central objectives for the next term is to promote sovereignty measures and revisit the legacy of the Oslo Accords.
Sovereignty and Policy Goals
Smotrich stated that his long-term vision includes formalizing Israeli sovereignty in key areas and encouraging what he described as emigration from Gaza and parts of Judea and Samaria.
Minister Orit Strock added that the growth of farm outposts has altered what she characterized as the IDF’s security posture in the region.
Broader Debate
Supporters argue that expanding communities strengthens national security and fulfills ideological commitments. Critics contend that such policies complicate diplomatic prospects and increase tensions.
The event underscored the party’s determination to place settlement expansion and sovereignty at the forefront of its political agenda in the coming years.
