Jerusalem, 10 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Farms Association, representing young Israeli settlements and shepherding farms in Judea and Samaria, says its network now controls more than 275,000 acres in Area C, over one-third of the territory, with plans to expand by another 247,000 acres.
More than 120 agricultural farms now operate across Judea and Samaria, exceeding the number of such farms in the rest of Israel combined. About 60 have been established since the Gaza war began, as settlement activity accelerates.
Supporters say the farms help protect state land, prevent illegal Palestinian construction, and preserve open areas through grazing and a physical presence. Critics, including left-wing groups and international organizations, contend that many farms operate without authorization, heighten tensions with Palestinians, and seek to prevent future Palestinian territorial contiguity.