A Political Land Deal

The Sommos’ appeal for land redemption grows into a political investment scheme that brings Michel and Zakheim into uneasy partnership.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Hebron Proposal

The Hebron Proposal A sacred purchase The Sommos request funds for Alkalai House in Hebron, presenting the purchase as peaceful recovery of Jewish property. Their appeal combines family needs with a national mission. An ideological test Alexander’s money would support a cause contrary to his public politics. The request places private guilt inside a broader conflict over land and sovereignty.

Zakheim Investigates

Zakheim Investigates Suspected pressure Zakheim examines Michel’s political affiliations, finances, and family network to determine whether Alexander is being manipulated. His report uncovers Michel’s involvement in activism and land schemes. An alliance in view The investigation does not prove blackmail, but it reveals a political operator whose convictions and ambitions reinforce one another.

The Toulouse Connection

The Toulouse Connection A proposed exchange Zakheim learns that Michel and a Parisian financier are negotiating an exchange involving religious land west of Bethlehem and property inside Israel’s pre-1967 borders. Private interests converge The proposed transaction links ideology, property, and commercial opportunity. Zakheim sees a way to make Michel useful to a broader investment network.

Tentpeg Takes Shape

Tentpeg Takes Shape Business formalized Michel and Zohar Etgar create Tentpeg with investors and discreet Parisian backing. The organization’s religious language accompanies its pursuit of property opportunities. New leverage Zakheim believes his son-in-law can keep Michel commercially useful. The alliance converts earlier suspicion into a calculated partnership.

A Future in the Territories

A Future in the Territories Political change anticipated Zakheim expects a change of government to open new development opportunities in the Sinai and West Bank. Michel is positioned as a religious advocate and negotiator. Mission and profit entwined The venture treats territorial expansion as both redemptive purpose and financial prospect. Its success would depend on a political future that remains contested.

14 March 1976

March 1976

July 1976

August 1976

Late summer 1976