Economy and Industry Minister Nir Barkat took part in a special event honoring the recognition of new towns in the Binyamin region. Speaking in an interview with Arutz Sheva he emphasized, “Now is the time to apply sovereignty in Judea and Samaria. Now is the time to dismantle the Palestinian Authority.”
Barkat reiterated an alternative vision based on what he referred to as the “Emirates model,” beginning in Hebron. Barkat has detailed the plan in the past, and is currently working on applying it, in collaboration with Binyamin Regional Council governor Israel Ganz and the Israeli government. “This model includes full Israeli recognition of the territories of Judea and Samaria,” said Barkat.
He added that he had been in direct contact with local leaders in Hebron. “When the sheikhs of Hebron say they want nothing to do with the corrupt Palestinian Authority, and they recognize Israel as the nation-state of the Jewish people—something the PA has never done—it shows a path forward,” he said. “They oppose terrorism and are ready to cooperate with the State of Israel. They aren’t seeking statehood and have no national aspirations. They simply want to live alongside us peacefully.”.
Barkat emphasizes that the concept of sovereignty has garnered extensive support, resonating deeply with both the political leadership and the general populace across Judea and Samaria. He believes that substantial strides can be made towards its implementation. A crucial turning point in this endeavor will arrive when neighboring Arab nations demonstrate a genuine and unequivocal desire for peace and cooperative engagement with this new initiative. Once such a commitment to peaceful coexistence and collaboration is evident, a significant and foundational portion of the overarching objective will have been successfully realized, paving the way for a more stable and integrated regional future.