After speaking with Druze leader, Netanyahu halts work on Golan wind farm for coming week

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announces work on a contentious wind farm project in the Golan Heights will be halted during the Eid al-Adha festival this week, after speaking with Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Muafak Tarif.

The Prime Minister’s Office says Netanyahu ordered the work stoppage at the recommendation of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Police Commissioner Kobi Shabtai, after major clashes broke out between Druze and security forces earlier this week.

The statement notes that far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir “expresses his opinion that the work also needs to continue tomorrow.”

It also says Netanyahu called to draw up plans to increase housing in Druze communities.