Route 417 (Israel–Palestine)

Route 417, also known as the Begin Highway (Derech Begin) or the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv Highway, is a major road in Israel and the West Bank that connects Jerusalem to Tel Aviv. It is a partially controlled-access highway.

The road's designation as a single route traversing both Israel and the Israeli-occupied West Bank makes it a significant subject of political and geographical debate. The segment located within the West Bank is considered by the international community to be occupied territory. This part of the road facilitates movement between Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Israel proper.

The highway has undergone significant upgrades and expansions over the years, aiming to improve traffic flow and reduce travel time between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. These improvements have included widening sections of the road, adding interchanges, and separating traffic lanes.

Due to its location and function, Route 417 is often the site of protests and demonstrations related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The road is considered crucial infrastructure by Israelis, while Palestinians often view it as a symbol of Israeli occupation and control. The presence of security checkpoints and the impact of the road on Palestinian communities are recurring points of contention.

The route follows a historical path that has connected Jerusalem and the coastal plain for centuries. Modern construction and realignment have significantly altered the original route in places.