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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a national project during a tour of the western Negev, aiming to 'return the Negev to the State of Israel.' The initiative, supported by Defense Minister Israel Katz and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, focuses on strengthening border communities, combating organized crime, and expanding settlements.

The delegation visited Revivim and Bir Hadaj, where officials briefed them on law enforcement efforts against weapons smuggling. The five-year plan includes demographic growth, settlement distribution along borders, and infrastructure improvements.

It emphasizes law and order alongside civil development, and security officials reported increased efforts to disrupt smuggling networks along the Egyptian border. Netanyahu called the initiative a 'national mission' and pledged continued support for governance and economic investment in the Negev.