Junction near Evyatar inaugurated 18 months after outpost’s approval

Evyatar received full recognition from the Israeli government last year in a quid pro quo that saw Smotrich prevent the financial collapse of the Palestinian Authority.

By JNS

Israeli government officials on Sunday inaugurated an upgraded traffic junction outside Evyatar in Samaria, 18 months after the town’s status was regularized, Arutz 7 reported.

The roadwork, costing 6 million shekels ($1.6 million), added turn lanes, sidewalks, lighting and other critical infrastructure, significantly improving road safety and access to the nascent Jewish community.

“Upgrading the Evyatar Junction is another link in the tremendous momentum we are driving in Judea and Samaria, reflecting our deep national commitment to the region,” said Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who also oversees civilian matters in Judea and Samaria.

“We are investing 7 billion shekels [$1.9 billion] in Judea and Samaria roads and are carrying out a transportation revolution that saves lives every day and provides security to tens of thousands,” he added.

Initially established in 2013 in the wake of the fatal stabbing of Evyatar Borovsky in the area but dismantled numerous times, Israelis moved back to Evyatar following a June 2023 shooting attack outside Eli.

Evyatar received full recognition from the Israeli government last year, in a quid pro quo that saw Smotrich prevent the financial collapse of the Palestinian Authority.

The Netanyahu government has led an unprecedented drive to expand Israel’s control of Judea and Samaria, reportedly approving close to 50,000 homes and 50 new Jewish communities since December 2022