Katz Pledges Settlement Revolution to Enhance Galilee Security and Jewish Presence in North

The conference aimed to create a decade-long strategy for promoting Jewish settlement in the Galilee with emphasis on population trends, territory use, living standards, and enforcement measures.

Defense Minister Israel Katz pledged to use all available means to improve security and drive a settlement revolution in the Galilee at an emergency conference organized by the Forum for Judaizing the Galilee on Sunday.

The Galilee represents both a national goal and a security priority. Robust Jewish settlement there forms an essential element of Israel's overall strength and protection, Katz stated.

Just as an unprecedented settlement push occurred in Judea and Samaria via new communities, farms, security improvements, and firm action against terrorism, similar efforts will target the Galilee, he noted.

Meeting Seeks Decade Strategy for Galilee Settlement Growth

Hosted by Karmiel Mayor Moshe Koninsky and initiated by Forum chair Dr. Ruth Cabasa Abramson, the event sought to build a ten-year framework for Jewish settlement, per a forum statement.

Discussions centered on four key areas: population trends, territory use, living standards, and enforcement measures.

The population component involves backing urban areas and communities that maintain Jewish character while fostering balanced demographics to support equality and social unity across Israel.

To free land for new settlements, the forum urged action against illegal building, expanded authority and funding for construction bodies, and review of Arab sector plans using current figures.

The framework also covers better living standards and job options in the region. Forum members stressed that transport upgrades and high-tech employment draws are vital to attract newcomers.

To safeguard development incentives, the forum proposed enforcement steps to cut regional crime, including drives against illegal weapons and targeted courts for organized crime, more investigators, and stronger deterrence.

Forum Urges New Coordination Unit for Urgent Situation

The forum called for a dedicated coordination unit inside the Prime Minister's Office plus guaranteed funding over the next ten years to carry out the plan.

Abramson described the Galilee situation as an emergency that has reached a critical threshold.

Without a decade-ahead plan addressing all aspects of the issue, Israel risks causing itself lasting harm, she warned.

We will reinforce Jewish settlement, build infrastructure, and strengthen security, Katz added.

Full victory arrives when the Galilee thrives with families, communities, and progress. This national goal requires my full commitment as Defense Minister, working with defense bodies to realize it, he concluded.