The head of Mossad supports the creation of a Bedouin industrial zone in the Negev
Roman Gofman believes that job creation in Bir Hadaj could strengthen security and reduce the influence of criminal networks
The director of the Mossad, Roman Gofman, gave unusual support to a controversial project for a joint industrial zone between the Bedouin locality of Bir Hadaj and the Ramat Negev Regional Council.
The project plans for the development of an area of approximately 200,000 square meters, or 20 hectares. Considered for several years, the initiative had never been implemented until now.
Salama Abu Edissen, president of the Neve Midbar Regional Council, which oversees Bir Hadaj, recently approached the Ramat Negev Council to revive the project.
The proposal, however, raises concerns among some local officials, who cite issues of crime as well as arms and drug trafficking in the region.
During a meeting of the Ramat Negev Council, its president Eran Doron presented a letter of support from Roman Gofman. The head of the Mossad claims to know the area well, having served there when he commanded the National Training Center for Land Forces.
"The initiative that was presented to me is a fair and courageous decision, endowed with strategic value of the highest order," he wrote.
According to Roman Gofman, the development of employment opportunities could strengthen the presence of the State, reduce social tensions, and limit the influence of criminal organizations.
He nevertheless acknowledged the risks associated with the project and recommended a gradual implementation, accompanied by monitoring mechanisms and law enforcement measures.
“The local population is, for the most part, law-abiding and looking for work and a future for their children. Expanding employment opportunities will reduce the room for maneuver available to criminal elements and strengthen the partnership with the state,” Gofman added.
Several elected officials have contested the cooperation with Bir Hadaj, believing that it could send the wrong message in light of the ongoing problems of crime and respect for the law.
Supporters of the project responded that the perpetrators of criminal activities should not be confused with the thousands of law-abiding residents in need of jobs.
Salama Abu Edissen welcomed the vote, stating that “when economic security improves, personal security also gets better.” According to him, job creation could steer some residents away from crime and bring lasting change to the region.