Before returning to Israel, Samaria Regional Council Head Yossi Dagan met in Washington with General William Boykin, former U.S. Deputy Undersecretary of Defense. Boykin, who previously commanded the Delta Force, led the hunt for Osama bin Laden.
“God Bless You”
During what was described as a “professional meeting,” Dagan presented Boykin with a map of Samaria, explaining its strategic security significance for Israel and the critical role of the region’s emergency response units. Boykin, whose rank is equivalent to an IDF Lieutenant General, expressed deep admiration for the volunteers serving in Samaria’s security teams.
“God bless you,” Boykin told the civilian emergency response teams. “The importance of your role cannot be overstated. You are the first line of defense, and if you fail, the cost could be the lives of many. Stay vigilant, stay ready, and remain in Samaria. Make sure that if Israel is attacked again, you will be prepared and able to defend and win. I hope and pray this will never happen again.”
Boykin: “Samaria Is Probably the Most Important Area in Israel”
Boykin also stated that Samaria is “probably the most important area in Israel” and expressed his hope to visit the country in the coming months.
“Thank You for Your Courage and Determination,” Addressing the emergency response unit commanders, Boykin added: “I want to thank you first and foremost for your leadership and for your willingness to stand against a powerful and evil enemy. Thank you for your courage and determination to put your lives on the line to protect the people of Samaria. Not everyone is willing to do that. And thank you for not only being ready but also preparing for the day you may have to take action to prevent further killing of Jews and Israelis in your country. I hope to see you soon. God bless you all.”
Dagan: “We Are Strong, and We Have Faith”
Yossi Dagan expressed gratitude to General Boykin, stating: “I promise you, General, that we are strong. We are in the middle of a very difficult war, but we have faith. We believe in God and understand our historic mission to build and safeguard our cities and communities in Judea and Samaria.”
The meeting with Boykin was part of a series of meetings Dagan held in Washington last week, aimed at strengthening ties between the Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria and the U.S. administration.
