In the northern Golan Heights lies Ein-Fit – a perennial spring surrounded by lush vegetation, ancient orchards, and rare wildlife. It is one of Israel’s most beautiful and ecologically important valleys, forming a natural corridor between the Odem and Banias reserves.
Yet this fragile site now faces the threat of destruction: the IDF plans to build a massive training facility in the heart of the valley.
Adam Teva V’Din has petitioned the High Court of Justice against the Ministry of Defense and the Defense Facilities Committee (‘valmab’) to halt the plan. The organization does not oppose the army’s operational needs, but insists that the project was advanced illegally – without an approved outline plan, without an environmental impact assessment, and without public consultation. Such shortcuts violate national master plans designed to protect Israel’s natural assets and open spaces.
Knesset Committee faces a packed crowd of concerned citizens
This week’s debate in the Knesset’s Environment Committee revealed how deeply Ein-Fit has moved the Israeli public. The committee room was packed – local council heads, residents, and environmentalists crowded shoulder-to-shoulder, speaking with passion about their love for the valley and their determination to preserve it. Knesset Members of the Committee were well-informed and very responsive to the issues of the case as presented to them by Adam Teva V’Din attorney, Ortal Sanker. One resident said, “We want our children to grow up where nature still breathes,” capturing the sentiment of many in the hall.
Scaled back – but not cancelled
An IDF representative claimed that the plan had been scaled back and that public access to the spring would be maintained. But as one participant observed, “If you sit at the spring and look up to see dozens of buildings around you – what kind of nature remains?” Despite media reports suggesting progress, the approval still stands, and the army has not yet revoked the permit.
Temporary safeguard – and our legal action continues
For now, construction is frozen pending the High Court hearing – a temporary safeguard won through legal action. Adam Teva V’Din continues to lead both the legal and civic struggle to protect Ein-Fit, demanding that any future planning process fully assess environmental impacts and uphold the law.
Ortal Sanker, attorney at Adam Teva V’Din comments: Protecting Ein-Fit is not only about one spring; it is about defending the principle that Israel’s natural heritage belongs to all of us – and that its preservation is a measure of our commitment to the generations who will come after us.
