Israeli defence minister lauds Hilltop Youth for retaining disputed West Bank land

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Defence Minister Israel Katz praised the radical Hilltop Youth settlers for keeping hold of occupied Palestinian territory in Ganim, a settlement removed in 2005.

Why it matters

The minister's praise signals official backing for controversial settlement activity, affecting Israeli-Palestinian tensions.

How this story developed

Jul 26 Israeli forces and settlers launch sweeping raids across West Bank after deadly Nablus shootout
Aug 3 Gaza civilians say Donald Trump's announced plan to disarm Hamas and end the war feels out of touch as Israeli strikes kill dozens and expand occupied zones.
Aug 5 The Israeli military began precision attacks in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, saying they responded to a Hezbollah breach after previously urging residents of Mansouri to evacuate.
Aug 5 Hamas envoy says the disarmament pact was taken to safeguard Gaza’s population.
Aug 6 Israel issued an evacuation order for Mansouri and began targeted strikes in southern Lebanon.
Aug 7 Iran and Oman moved toward an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Aug 7 Settlers set fire to homes in Khirbet al‑Tuba, marking the latest incident in the ongoing wave of violence.
Aug 12 Extremist Israeli settlers have surrounded the Abu Ridi and Hassan families in Qusra, cutting utilities and blocking exits, while Israeli forces withdrew and the UN cautioned that the West Bank is at a breaking point.
Aug 13 Israeli troops entered six homes in Qusra and consolidated the besieged families into one house.
Aug 13 Israel announced a plan to create a "Samaria" national park covering roughly 450 acres of olive‑grove land near Sebastia.

In this story

Synthesised by Briev

Updated 14 Aug 2026, 01:17 UTC