West Bank to receive first 4G mobile network after Israel-backed telecom deal

The upgrade is part of a package of measures agreed by the Lapid and Bennett governments and encourage by the Biden administration to boost the Palestinian economy.

However, it will not extend to the Gaza Strip, which will remain limited to 2G networks.

Israel has had access to 4G connections since 2018 and major cities have already adopted 5G technology in recent years.

Israeli networks are meant to only serve settlements, not Palestinian Authority areas, in the West Bank, but they are often available in large sections of the territory.

As a result, many Palestinians in the West Bank already use Israeli networks as they are generally cheaper and provide a faster connection.

Elad Mekdasi, director-general of the Communications Minister, said: “We have identified that the pace of equipment replacement doesn't match the forecasts and that the information provided by the companies regarding the process of shutting down the networks is inconsistent, and therefore we were required to act.

"The new outline shifts the center of gravity to the companies' risk management: We're removing regulatory pressure to shut down on a specified date but requiring operators to ensure continuity of service.

"We won't allow a situation of a 'black hole' in emergency calls, and therefore we've defined a safety net that will operate in the coming years as a vital backup."

On Israel’s telecom transition, Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi added: “We're moving toward 5G but we're not leaving a single citizen behind. The updated outline requires the companies to prepare responsibly and inform the public in a timely manner.

"A telecom company that completes the transition efficiently and quickly will earn better and higher-quality infrastructure for all its customers.

"The power is moving to the consumer: The upgrade of the infrastructure will continue more vigorously, while maintaining the continuity of service and the public's right to reliable, available and safe communication from anywhere in the country."