Approximately 40 evacuees from the kibbutzim of Mefalsim, Nir Am, and Erez have filed a petition with Israel's High Court of Justice, contesting the state's repatriation plan and the actions of the Tekuma Administration. The petitioners argue that the plan forcibly returns them to their homes near the Gaza border prematurely.
The issue came to light during a broadcast on Kan Reshet B's "This Morning" program. Liat Gini, a petitioner from Mefalsim, expressed her concerns: "The authorities are prioritizing a narrative of victory over our well-being. They're pushing for our return regardless of the consequences."
With the state-funded hotel accommodations for hundreds of Gaza envelope families set to expire in less than two weeks, many evacuees face uncertainty about their children's educational arrangements. Michal Kariv, another Mefalsim resident, stated, "This is unprecedented. The state is compelling our return during an ongoing conflict, while we're still grappling with the trauma of the recent attacks."
Kariv further explained that residents were given inadequate time to review and respond to the repatriation plan. She argued that Mefalsim, Nir Am, and Erez, being just a kilometer from the border, should have been exempted from the immediate return policy.
Critics of the plan point out several issues:
1. Lack of comprehensive support for returnees
2. Conflicting policies on rent subsidies and tax benefits
3. Insufficient provisions for young adults under 26
The petitioners allege that the plan's delayed presentation was a deliberate attempt to limit their ability to seek legal recourse. Gini added, "The authorities are prioritizing optics over our safety and financial stability."
In response, the Tekuma Administration stated that the plan, set to commence on August 15, was developed in collaboration with various government ministries and local authorities. It aims to provide support, including rent assistance, until June 30, 2025, for families needing additional time away from the conflict zone.
The administration emphasized that the plan allows and encourages periodic home visits to maintain community connections and facilitate eventual return. They assured that all concerns, including the current petition, will be addressed by relevant authorities as necessary.
*Kann News contributed to this article.