KKL-JNF Relocates Disputed Galilee Grazing Encampment Amid Local Tensions
Following local protests, KKL-JNF is relocating a disputed grazing encampment near Majd al-Krum, replacing outside activists with Galilee guards to ease regional tensions.
Following protests by residents of Majd al-Krum and the communities of Tzurit and Gilon against an encampment established near the Arab town on KKL-JNF lands, KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky toured the site and announced new arrangements. The encampment will be relocated to a more distant spot, and instead of hill youth from Judea and Samaria, members of Hashomer HaHadash from the Galilee will guard the area. They will receive permits to set up no more than two encampments for goat herds to graze in the region, as well as for the guards' lodging and storage.
Relocating the Grazing Point to Reduce Tensions
Ostrinsky Stresses Importance of Fire Prevention and Security
"We will re-establish the dismantled grazing point, as it is critical for preventing forest fires and maintaining the security and safety of the entire public in the area, Arabs and Jews alike," Ostrinsky stated.
The storm surrounding the encampment erupted when youths set up tents on KKL-JNF lands adjacent to Majd al-Krum, with some trespassing onto private property. Fears that this was an attempt to establish an unauthorized political outposts led to regional tensions and demonstrations. Now, KKL-JNF is changing tactics and reducing its footprint to lower the flames.
Local personnel from the Galilee organization Hashomer HaHadash will replace the original staff to respect the delicate fabric of life in the region. Professional teams evaluated several alternatives before deciding to set up the livestock gathering point about 400 meters away from the contested area, with grazing permits granted across all KKL-JNF lands.
