Thousands are expected to take part in next week’s march to Chomesh, the northern Shomron community that was wiped out during then prime minister, Ariel Sharon’s disengagement plan in the summer of 2005. Nearby SaNur was also wiped out, along with Gush Katif’s entire Jewish community and all its infrastructure.

The march is reportedly being conducted in coordination with the IDF, to coincide with Israel’s 60th anniversary. Another recent march to Chomesh was canceled as the IDF withdrew its permit at the last minute, leaving a small number of activists who decided to defy the legal realities.

Since the destruction of the community, there has been a growing momentum towards rebuilding it and during recent months, there has been a small steady presence in the community, a number of people who remain committed to seeing Chomesh return to its former glory.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)