While some of the members of Bayit Yehudi were at Amona during the course of the day, it was not the welcome they were hoping for. Actually, most of the anger of residents and supporters is directed against the dati leumi party, which was quick to assure and promise residents a solution would be found.

Some, including MK Betzalel Smotrich explained another eviction of Jews from their homes is a red line that may not be crossed, warning his party would break from the coalition if any yishuvim are removed. Today, it is clear to all that these were empty words.

Many point out Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and his Likud party explaining their hands are tied because of the High Court of Justice Decision but for Bennet and his followers, it was a “red line”. When party ministers Ayelet Shaked and Uri Ariel arrived, hey too were jeered. Bottom line is Bayit Yehudi failed and Amona is being removed.

Speaking in Knesset as the eviction was taking place, Naftali Bennet explained that this battle was lost but there is going to be victory in Yehuda and Shomron as thousands of homes are being built and there will be changes annexing areas of Yehuda and Shomron, thereby adding significant legitimacy. Bennet clearly tried to signal success for his party but for today at least, no one appears interested in hearing what he has to say.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)