Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has signaled he wishes to visit the Ma�aras HaMachpelah and if the ISA (Israel Security Agency – Shin Bet) permits this, he is expected to arrive in the near future. The prime minister may also make a number of stops at locations in Gush Etzion.

As part of his ongoing campaign to portray himself as a right-wing prime minister, Mr. Netanyahu wishes to make the visit before the elections for the 20th Knesset.

Right-wing party officials commenting on the prime minister�s planned visit state �Suddenly, before elections, Netanyahu reminds himself he is right-wing and has to visit Hebron��

The prime minister�s planned visit is perceived as another step to grab votes from the Bayit Yehudi party. Last week, the prime minister visited the Bnei David Mechina Yeshiva in Yishuv Eli, a week following a visit to the yeshiva by Yachad candidate and decorated IDF officer MK Yoni Chetboun.

(YWN � Israel Desk, Jerusalem)