The government on Sunday approved a landmark plan to begin formal land registration proceedings in Judea and Samaria for the first time since 1967, a move officials describe as a major shift in civilian administration in the area.

The proposal was advanced by Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Finance Minister and Minister in the Defense Ministry Bezalel Smotrich, and Defense Minister Yisroel Katz. It calls for restarting official land registry operations, commonly referred to as the “Tabu,” canceling outdated Jordanian-era laws, and unsealing land records that have remained closed for decades.

The decision is being viewed as one of the most far-reaching changes to civilian governance in Judea and Samaria since the Six-Day War. According to the government, the objective is to bring clarity to land ownership, curb fraudulent claims, and strengthen Israel’s administrative control in the region.

Under the resolution, the Land Registration and Rights Authority within the Justice Ministry will be empowered to oversee the new regulatory process. The agency will receive a dedicated budget and additional personnel to implement the plan.

Among the practical implications of the move is the formal registration of extensive tracts of land in Judea and Samaria under the state’s name.

In an official statement, the government said the renewed procedures will enable a transparent and comprehensive review of property rights, help settle legal disputes, and facilitate organized infrastructure development and land marketing. The statement also noted that the decision comes in response to land regulation efforts advanced by the Palestinian Authority in Area C.

Katz emphasized, “The renewal of the land regulation in Judea and Samaria is a vital security and governance move aimed at ensuring Israel’s control, enforcement, and full operational freedom in the area. Land regulation prevents unilateral actions, reduces attempts at illegal land seizures, and disrupts terrorist infrastructure that undermines stability and security. This is a necessary step for creating operational and legal certainty, enabling the IDF and the security forces to act decisively to protect Israeli citizens and safeguard national interests. I thank Ministers Smotrich and Levin for their cooperation.”

Smotrich added, “We continue the settlement revolution and the holding of all territories of our land. For the first time since the Six-Day War, we are restoring order and governance to land management in Judea and Samaria. Regulated land arrangements prevent disputes, create legal certainty, prevent unilateral actions, and enable lawful and responsible development. The State of Israel is taking responsibility for its land and is acting according to the law, transparently and decisively.”

Levin concluded: “The proposal that was approved represents a true revolution in Judea and Samaria. The Land of Israel belongs to the people of Israel. The Israeli government is committed to deepening its hold over all its parts, and this decision reflects that commitment. I thank my friends, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Israel Katz, for advancing this proposal, and the professional staff in their offices who helped bring it to fruition.”