Giv’at Ze’ev was officially granted city status on Sunday, ending decades as a local council after the declaration was signed by Central Command Commander Maj. Gen. Avi Bluth. The move followed extensive work by professional teams from the Defense Ministry’s Settlement Directorate and the Interior Ministry.
Home to more than 35,000 residents, Giv’at Ze’ev is expected to benefit from expanded municipal authority and planning capabilities. Mayor Yossi Asraf hailed the decision as “a historic moment for Giv’at Ze’ev,” calling it “an enormous boost” for the Jerusalem area. He said the new status would strengthen the municipality’s ability to provide services, promote development, and address the needs of its growing population.
AFSI Insight
AFSI welcomes the designation of Givat Ze’ev as the fifth city in Judea and Samaria, and sees it as another important step in strengthening Israel’s presence in its ancestral homeland. This recognition reflects the community’s growth and permanence while reinforcing the reality that Judea and Samaria are vital to Israel’s security and future.
AFSI applauds Israeli leaders for taking another concrete step that advances sovereignty. AFSI believes this progress should continue with policies that strengthen infrastructure, housing, security, and legal recognition for all Jewish communities throughout Judea and Samaria. Rather than retreating from its ancestral homeland, Israel must continue to build, develop, and secure it for future generations.
Source:
Givat Ze’ev declared the fifth city in Judea and Samaria, by Israel National News, July 12, 2026