Seven U.S. states are moving to replace the term “West Bank” with “Judea and Samaria” in official records—marking a watershed moment in U.S.-Israel relations and biblical justice advocacy.
Jerusalem, July 2025 — In a groundbreaking diplomatic and symbolic victory for Israel and the Jewish communities of Judea and Samaria, legislators from seven U.S. states—Utah, Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana, Idaho, Iowa, and Oklahoma—announced their intention to introduce bills mandating the use of “Judea and Samaria” instead of “West Bank” in all official state documents.
This historic move is part of a broader initiative led by Yossi Dagan, head of the Samaria Regional Council, aimed at bolstering recognition of Israeli sovereignty and affirming the Jewish people’s ancestral and biblical connection to the land.
The announcement was made at the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) national summit—the largest legislative conference in the U.S.—attended by over 450 lawmakers from all 50 states. In a compelling address, Dagan urged lawmakers to adopt the terminology that aligns with both biblical history and archaeological truth.
“This is nothing short of a revolution in historical justice,” Dagan declared. “Judea and Samaria are not merely geographical terms—they are the heart of our people, the soul of our Bible, and the site of our prophetic heritage. Calling it the ‘West Bank’ is a distortion that must end.”
Dagan emphasized the global propaganda war against Israel and the importance of language in shaping public perception. “When they failed to destroy us with missiles, they turned to words. This bill is a counterattack grounded in truth.”
The resolution passed unanimously at ALEC, setting the stage for its advancement in multiple state legislatures. It follows a similar law passed in Arkansas, which became the first state to officially abandon the use of “West Bank” in government language. That law was championed by State Representatives Mindy McAlindon and Senator Jim Dotson in partnership with Dagan.
Senator Dotson shared, “We’re proud that Arkansas is leading the way. This is about standing for truth, history, and our ally Israel.”
Representative McAlindon added, “The term ‘West Bank’ is a political fiction. ‘Judea and Samaria’ reflect historical and archaeological facts dating back over 3,000 years. We want all 50 states to follow suit.”
The movement has also gained traction on the federal level. Congresswoman Claudia Tenney, with support from over 20 lawmakers, introduced a bill to formally adopt the names Judea and Samaria in U.S. government policy. Rep. Brian Mast, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, recently declared that his committee would also begin using the biblical terms exclusively.
The law states unequivocally:
“Judea and Samaria are the biblical heartland of the Jewish people, and the State of Israel cannot be considered an occupier in these areas.”
This legislative campaign represents a major step toward reshaping international and public discourse about Israel’s legitimacy in its historical homeland. More than a terminology change, it is a reaffirmation of truth, identity, and sovereignty.
As Dagan concluded to thunderous applause:
“This is only the beginning. With God’s help, we will bring this truth to every state in America and beyond—for justice, for Israel, and for all who stand for truth.”
