Rabbi Rafi Peretz
Rabbi Rafi PeretzSpokesperson

Minister of Jerusalem Affairs Rabbi Rafi Peretz (Jewish Home) said on Friday that he would oppose a construction freeze in Judea and Samaria as well as recognition of a Palestinian state.

“Dear friends, on the eve of the application of sovereignty in Judea and Samaria we are at a historic crossroads,” Rabbi Peretz wrote on his Facebook page.

“The world's greatest superpower, headed by President Donald Trump, recognizes our right to our country. We do not need assurances that the land is ours, but the fact that a country the size of America recognizes the Land of Israel as the historic homeland of the Jewish people is no small matter.”

“President Trump is a true friend of the State of Israel and I am sure he means well for the State of Israel. This has been proven in his recognition of the Golan and Jerusalem and the transfer of the US embassy to the capital. Many presidents spoke, but he acted and continues to act. There is no doubt that the great friendship between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump have brought us to a state of international recognition of Judea and Samaria.”

“The Deal of the Century holds a great opportunity. A historic opportunity to apply our sovereignty in Judea and Samaria.”

“A vision we have dreamed of since these areas of the country were liberated in 1967. Those pioneers, settlers who sacrificed their lives for our hold on the land have been praying for this moment.”

“But there are clauses in the plan that we cannot accept.”

“We will not accept the establishment of a Palestinian state in our homeland. I will oppose any mention of recognition of a Palestinian state in the legislation to come.”

“We will not accept a construction freeze. The State of Israel sent the residents to Judea and Samaria and it is impossible to accept a suffocation of communities.”

“This is a golden opportunity that must be taken advantage of, but we must not make decisions that will result in long-term damage to the State of Israel and our values. We will support the application of sovereignty and push for it with all our might. And we will oppose the steps that will promote the establishment of another state between the Jordan and the sea,” concluded Peretz.

(Arutz Sheva’s North American desk is keeping you updated until the start of Shabbat in New York. The time posted automatically on all Arutz Sheva articles, however, is Israeli time.)