Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced Monday that the Civil Administration has declared 170 dunams (42 acres) of land surrounding the Herodium archaeological site in the Etzion Bloc as “state land.” This means land that is not privately owned can be used for various purposes including Jewish community development.
This news serves as a catalyst for transforming the Herodium site into an international tourist center, said Gush Etzion Regional Council Chairman Yaron Rosenthal. He added that it will “bring prosperity to the entire region” and is “a magnificent testimony to our historical connection with this part of the country.”
Smotrich has authority over the Civil Administration as part of his role as a second minister in the Defense Ministry. AFSI congratulates him on his tireless work and success in advancing development in Judea and Samaria, Israel’s heartland.