Full Breakdown
Transforming Israel's Periphery: The Push for Independent Metropolises
2/16/2026, 9:08:58 PM
Strategic Turning Point for Northern and Southern Regions
Recent discussions at Madlan Media's "No More Periphery" conference highlighted a pivotal moment for Israel's northern and southern regions. The panel emphasized that the focus has shifted from whether a periphery exists to how the state can leverage current opportunities—security, economic, and demographic—to develop independent metropolises that enhance employment, commerce, and quality of life. Rafi Elmaliach, head of the Planning Administration, articulated that the transformation hinges on functional divisions rather than municipal borders, aiming to provide maximum services within a half-hour commute from home.
Economic Drivers Behind Development
Uzi Levy, CEO of the Mivne Group, noted that the economic motivations for developing these areas are paramount. He stated that the trend is driven purely by profit, with commercial and employment projects emerging in cities like Ma’alot, Ofakim, Dimona, and Kiryat Shmona, as businesses follow market demand. This economic shift is seen as a foundation for the North to evolve into a self-sufficient metropolis, contingent on strategic state investment.
NVIDIA's Role as a Catalyst
Ido Greenblum, head of Kiryat Tivon Council, rejected the notion that NVIDIA's arrival was a stroke of luck, asserting that it resulted from years of collaborative planning among various authorities, including the Planning Administration and the Israel Land Authority. Greenblum emphasized the need to amplify this momentum across the region through improved transportation and employment hubs, fostering genuine connections between communities.
Local Leadership and Vision
Moti Ben-David, mayor of Ma’alot-Tarshiha, underscored the proactive role of local authorities in driving development. He expressed a straightforward approach: cities must take charge of building, marketing, and establishing commerce and employment centers. This sentiment reflects a broader belief that the current moment presents a unique opportunity for growth that should not be squandered.
Warnings Against Complacency
Assaf Simon, CEO of BST Development, cautioned against complacency, warning that failing to capitalize on this moment could lead to missed opportunities that arise infrequently. He criticized the vision of merely connecting Tel Aviv to Kiryat Shmona, advocating instead for a robust internal transportation network that retains jobs in the North and prevents a scenario where residents commute to the center for work.
Official Statements & Responses
Local leaders and business executives have consistently called for minimal state interference in their development efforts, emphasizing their capability to drive progress independently. They argue that the current economic climate necessitates swift action to establish the North as a viable economic hub.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism, there are concerns regarding the potential for over-reliance on external factors, such as the presence of tech giants like NVIDIA. Critics argue that without a comprehensive and sustainable development plan, the region may not achieve its full potential as an independent metropolis.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Eliminating the periphery is not just saying we cancel the semantic word,” — Rafi Elmaliach, Head of Planning Administration
- “If the State of Israel fails to seize this moment, these are moments that probably happen once every few decades or even less frequently.” — Assaf Simon, CEO of BST Development
- “We need the state not to interfere. We know how to get the work done.” — Moti Ben-David, Mayor of Ma’alot-Tarshiha
