The Israeli government on Tuesday approved a proposal by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Transportation Minister Miri Regev to rename Highway 443 in memory of former Deputy Prime Minister and Cabinet Minister David Levy.

Under the decision, the section of Highway 443 stretching from the Ben Shemen Interchange to the Beitunia-Givat Ze’ev Junction will officially be named “Derech HaLevi’im – In Memory of Minister David Levy.”

In addition to commemorating Levy, the government approved the name “Derech HaLevi’im” (“Way of the Levites”), reflecting the area’s historical connection to the Shevet Levi and the Kohanim, as well as the nearby Modiin region, which is associated with the Chashmonaim.

Highway 443 is one of Israel’s busiest transportation routes, connecting Yerushalayim with Modiin, Yehuda and Shomron, the Shefelah, and central Israel. Hundreds of thousands of motorists travel the highway each day.

Under the government decision, the Transportation Ministry, in coordination with the Defense Ministry, will update road signage along the highway, while the Government Secretariat will officially publish the new name.

Netanyahu said David Levy “was a devoted public servant who contributed greatly to the State of Israel,” adding that naming the highway connecting Yerushalayim and central Israel in his memory symbolizes his lifelong commitment to national unity, the country’s periphery, and Israeli society.

Regev said Levy was “one of Israel’s most prominent leaders,” who dedicated his life to strengthening national unity, advancing the country’s periphery, and promoting social justice. She said naming one of Israel’s central highways in his honor is a fitting tribute that will ensure his legacy endures for generations.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)