Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai cautioned officials that plans to evict Jews from Bet HaShalom must advance cautiously and responsibly, adding that “the law is above all else,” vowing the Supreme Court’s ruling will be enforced.

The deputy minister is also investigating yeshivos that he feels are responsible for inciting extremists to oppose the government. His ongoing investigation is authorized by Defense Minister Ehud Barak. Vilnai suggests that such yeshivos be shut down, or at the very least, their government funding be eliminated.

Bet HaShalom, which was purchased through the generosity of philanthropists wishing to support the Chevron community, was purchased for about $1 million but Arab objections’ have prompted the nation’s highest court to decide to place the ownership issue on the side for a later date, preferring to oust the Jews and place the building in the hands of the state until the ownership issue can be decided.

Chevron’s community responded harshly, backed by over 50 MKs, but nevertheless the government has decided the court’s ruling permitting the eviction of the Jews is being interpreted as a directive to oust the families from the multi-family dwelling. The defense establishment many feel is using the Chevron issue to drum up support among centrist and left-wing voters ahead of the general election on 10 February.

Supporters of Bet HaShalom warn the eviction process may be bloodier than the Amona expulsion, vowing the residents and supporters will not be removed from the structure without a fight. Community leaders expressed their adamant opposition to the use of violence, but warn they will not sit by idly if police use the brutal methods deployed in Amona.

Public Minister Avi Dichter released a message that both the IDF and Israel Police are prepared for the eventuality that the building will not be evacuated voluntarily, vowing to enforce the High Court’s ruling.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)