Route 444

Route 444, often referred to as the 'Old North Road' in certain sections, is a vital transportation corridor in Israel's central Sharon region. It stretches from the Ben Shemen area in the south to the junction with Route 57 in the north. The highway's strategic significance is defined by its geography; it runs along the 'waistline' of Israel, situated between the densely populated coastal plain and the Samarian hills. This positioning makes it a primary route for residents of communities such as Kochav Yair, Tzur Yitzhak, and Tzur Natan, as well as the Arab-Israeli city of Tayibe.

From a security perspective, Route 444 is a sensitive zone. Its proximity to the Green Line means it frequently intersects with areas of high friction. In June 2026, the road became a central axis in a multi-location 'rolling' terror attack. The assailant, a resident of Tayibe, utilized the highway to move between attack sites in the Kochav Yair area before being neutralized. Such incidents often lead to rapid closures of the road by the IDF and Israel Police to prevent further movement of suspects and to facilitate searches in adjacent communities.

Beyond security, the highway is a major civilian artery. It provides essential access to Highway 6 (the Trans-Israel Highway) via several interchanges, including Rosh HaAyin South. However, its role as a frontline road also exposes it to broader regional threats. During periods of escalation, such as the Iranian missile barrages in early 2026, the road has been impacted by falling shrapnel and projectiles, necessitating emergency closures and roadblocks by the Israel Fire and Rescue Authority and Netivei Israel. The maintenance of traffic flow and security on Route 444 is considered a priority for maintaining the resilience of the Sharon region's 'seam zone' communities.