These days, a new site is being completed in the Eshkol Regional Council, an amazing attraction open to the public: a scenic viewpoint, with a small amphitheater area, open to the sky.

The visitors who have already discovered the new “charming spot” in the middle of nowhere – testify that the view of the sunset in the pleasant evening breeze turns the place into one of the nicest sites in the western Negev for an evening coffee, under the magnificent sunset skies.

On the “Field Road”, in the heart of the agricultural lands of “Halutza”, halfway between Tzellim and Gevulot, at the top of the prominent hill in the area, known to the local residents as the “Iris Hill” (during the season, in March, a concentration of beautiful blooming Negev irises).

How to get there?

Next to the entrance gate to Kibbutz Tzellim – turn right to the Field Road, drive 5 km on the paved road until you reach the hill. You can’t miss it….
On Waze: Iris Hill (near Tzellim and Gevulot, not in Netanya or Yeruham).

What’s at the site?

A massive basalt rock in memory of Lt. Col. Mahmoud Al-Khair, a Druze officer decorated with the Chief of Staff Commendation, who was killed in a secret operation in Khan Yunis on November 11, 2018, known to the public for about 4 years only as Lt. Col. M.

On the slopes of the hill, a small amphitheater was built, blending perfectly with the Negev dunes. The seating faces west, towards Khan Yunis. Further on – a small grove with 8 olive trees, and next to them one tall and prominent tree – a symbol of the nine team members of the special unit, from which Mahmoud Al-Khair did not return from his daring and important operation.

The site was established on the initiative and by the Military Intelligence Unit and supporting associations, implemented and in partnership with the Shikma-Besor Drainage Authority, with the assistance of the Eshkol Regional Council, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority, Kibbutz Tzellim and additional bodies.

What’s in the surroundings?

Right at the top of the hill – a prominent statue commemorating the founders of the Western Negev water line (which is the route of the Field Road).
At the foot of the hill, in the shade of the eucalyptus trees – KKL picnic tables.
In season (March-April) – blooming of the Negev iris.
Near the hill – the largest photovoltaic solar site in the country!
In Kibbutz Tzellim – the Iron Flock Heritage Museum, a fascinating heritage site.
In Kibbutz Gevulot – Gevulot Lookout, a 1943 settlement site.
5 km northeast, near the Tzellim junction: the entrance to the Besor Road, the Hanging Bridge, the Reservoirs Lookout and the Eshkol Park.