The Lead
Reports on Monday morning confirm that Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has removed the Islamic Waqf from the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, transferring administrative control to Jewish hands. The move, which first emerged in reports on Sunday night, marks a significant shift in the long-standing status quo at the sensitive holy site in Judea and Samaria.
Israeli media reports indicate that the administrative transfer of the Cave of the Patriarchs is now effective, following an order by National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. The move ends the administrative presence of the Islamic Waqf at the site, which has historically operated under a complex division of authority between Jewish and Muslim bodies.
Context of the Shift
The Cave of the Patriarchs, located in the H2 sector of Hebron, is one of the most significant holy sites in the Jewish world. Under the 1997 Hebron Protocol, the site has functioned with shared access and administrative roles involving the Jordanian-backed Waqf. This latest development follows a series of steps by the Israeli government to strengthen its hold on the site. As The Zioneer reported earlier, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich previously moved to transfer planning powers from the Hebron municipality to Israeli authorities, enabling infrastructure projects such as the installation of a permanent roof over the prayer plaza.
Analysis and Status
While reports from Channel 14 and other outlets describe the move as a "drama in Hebron," official confirmation from the Prime Minister’s Office or the Waqf itself has not yet been issued. The removal of the Waqf represents a fundamental change in the day-to-day management of the site, potentially ending decades of Islamic administrative involvement. This follows a broader trend noted by The Zioneer regarding changing security and administrative coordination at sensitive sites, including reports of the Israel Police severing working ties with the Waqf on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
Outlook
Asserting full Jewish control over the Cave of the Patriarchs is a long-standing goal for members of the current coalition, viewed as a necessary step for national resilience and religious sovereignty. However, such changes at contested holy sites often draw international scrutiny. Observers will be watching for an official government statement to confirm the full scope and permanence of this administrative shift.
2 developments
- Massive renovation, roofing begins at Tomb of the Patriarchs after Hebron planning powers transferredEditorially linked
- Israel moves to clear four Waqf offices inside Al-Aqsa compound, sources sayEditorially linked
- Report: Israel Police Cuts Ties with Waqf on Temple MountRelated analysis
- Censor-cleared report: Regional officials discussed signing deal with Israel now, opening war laterEditorially linked
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