Cabinet approves 34 new settlements in Judea and Samaria, Sha-Nur Mizrah expected imminently

The declassified cabinet decision marks a significant expansion of Israeli presence in the region, with 34 new communities distributed across strategic points. According to the breakdown, nine settlements will be established in Samaria, seven in Benjamin, four in the Hebron Hills, seven in the Jordan Valley, six in Gush Etzion, and one in the Megilot region. This brings the total number of settlements approved during the current government's tenure to 103. A central component of this development is the expected imminent approval of Sha-Nur Mizrah, a planned community in Samaria.

Budgetary and Infrastructure Framework

The development is backed by a total budget of NIS 2.3 billion. Approximately NIS 1.3 billion is designated for the immediate establishment of "pioneer neighborhoods" to facilitate a rapid physical presence on the ground while permanent planning continues. Additionally, the government is expected to finalize a plan tonight for over NIS 1 billion in access and security roads. This infrastructure budget, managed by the Defense and Transport ministries, includes routes serving four communities in northern Samaria that were evacuated during the 2005 disengagement.

Strategic Context and Analysis

Minister Smotrich characterized the move as a "security-strategic" foundation intended to bolster national resilience and prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. The decision to keep the March approval classified until now allowed for initial planning to proceed during a sensitive diplomatic period. Analysts note that the timing of the announcement, occurring near Tisha B'Av, carries significant symbolic weight for the settlement movement. While the cabinet has authorized the broader plan, the specific finalization of Sha-Nur Mizrah is viewed as a key indicator of the government's commitment to returning to areas evacuated decades ago.