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)