Ministers Katz and Smotrich pledge to strengthen Jewish communities and fight illegal construction in Judea and Samaria 

Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich mae a visit to Judea and Samaria on Tuesday, their visit making a clear statement about where the government stands on Jewish settlements and unauthorized Palestinian construction.

The pair walked the ground at newly recognized communities like Kerem Re'im and Sde Ephraim, getting firsthand looks at the security challenges these settlements face daily.

Katz called Judea and Samaria Israel's "historical heartland," not just empty political rhetoric, but a deeply held conviction that seemed to drive his every word. The brutal reality of the Swords of Iron War hung over his remarks, a fresh reminder of why the government sees securing these territories as non-negotiable.

"We won't let the Palestinian Authority chip away at Jewish communities through backdoor construction," Katz told a small gathering, his tone matter-of-fact rather than bombastic. He spoke of continuing to dismantle terrorist strongholds in places like Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur a-Shams, areas which have seen intense IDF operations in recent months.

The Defense Minister didn't mince words about preventing PA territorial gains. "This isn't just about these communities – it's about Israel's security as a whole," he said, squinting against the sun as he gestured toward the surrounding landscape. He confirmed that the IDF had received clear orders: step up enforcement, watch these areas like hawks, and tear down unauthorized structures.

Smotrich, known for his staunch support of the settlement movement, picked up where Katz left off. He talked proudly about recognizing 28 new communities and cracking down on areas that previous governments had looked away from, like Fire Zone 918. With evident satisfaction, he noted the record number of illegal Arab structures demolished over the past year.

As the tour wrapped up, Smotrich made a point that seemed especially important to him. "The Jews living here deserve the same security as someone in Tel Aviv or Haifa," he said, the passion clear in his voice. "This land isn't just real estate – it's woven into who we are as a nation."

Following their visit, both ministers left no doubt: this government won't back down from protecting Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria, regardless of international pressure or local resistance. The message was delivered not just in their words, but in the very fact of their presence among these contested hills.