Netanyahu urges removal of 14 illegal outposts and Jewish extremists in West Bank

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently called for the dismantling of 14 unauthorized outposts in the West Bank, describing them as hubs of extremist activity and nationalist crimes, according to N12 on Saturday.

In a security meeting, the government decided to focus on apprehending 70 far-right activists who had been hiding in farms and outposts. These individuals are accused of committing violent acts primarily against Palestinians, both within and outside local villages. Around 30 of these activists already have restraining orders, with authorities expecting the number to rise.

Responding to N12's report, a political source clarified that Netanyahu's meeting was not aimed at evacuating outposts. Instead, it focused on addressing a group of delinquent youths who do not belong to the settlements nor represent them. Any other headline is incorrect and false, the source stated.

The issue has intensified following violent incidents, including a recent attack in the Palestinian village of Huwara, where dozens of young Jewish men set fire to vehicles and buildings. This prompted an emergency meeting at the end of November to evaluate the inability of the IDF, Shin Bet, and Israel Police to control the rising extremist violence.

During the security assessment, IDF Central Command chief Maj.-Gen. Avi Bluth warned of the threat posed by lawless elements: The writing is on the wall. There are normal residents living on the farms, and in the outposts, there are disorderly lawbreakers and rioters.

National Missions Minister Orit Strock highlighted the distinction between settlers, noting that there are farms and there are outposts, and they are different. Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stressed that there are good people in the outposts as well. It cannot be that you evacuate an outpost while illegal constructions by Arabs in the West Bank remain untouched.

Clashes between Israeli security forces and settlers have already occurred during attempts to remove illegal structures, such as in Tzur Misgavi in Gush Etzion on November 17, 2025.

Author: Gavin Porter