Against the background of the fighting, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich held a press conference on Sunday evening, in which he detailed the cost of the fighting and the benefits that will be provided. He began by taking responsibility: "We must admit honestly, painfully, with our heads bowed – we have failed – the leadership of the state and the security establishment."
He later said that he had given an unequivocal instruction that there would be no budgetary limitation on assistance to survivors of the massacre and the requirements of the IDF and security forces required for the success of the fighting. "I have instructed the Budget Department and the Accountant General to act to change budgetary priorities," he said.
Signs of struggle and destruction. The living room where the horror froze, photo: Oren Cohen
He added: "The Division is meticulously mapping all non-essential budgets to support pressure efforts, support for citizens, and the continuous functioning of the economy. As part of the mapping, all unpaid and committed budgets are being examined, including coalition budgets for 2023-2024."
Afterwards, Yoav Gradus, head of the budget department, presented the measures that he said should make things easier for businesses throughout the country. The plan includes the establishment of a state-guaranteed loan fund totaling NIS 4 billion, deferral of National Insurance payments to the self-employed at a cost of NIS 0.5 billion, advances state payments to businesses at a cost of NIS 3 billion, deferral of VAT payments totaling NIS 5.<> billion, and provides grants to businesses whose turnover has been significantly affected. Gradus noted that this grant requires legislation.
Fighters near the Gaza Strip, photo: AP
The cost of the fighting will be NIS 2 billion a week. As mentioned, the 2024 budget will change dramatically. Regarding the funding of the program, Gradus noted that the property tax fund has almost NIS 18 billion, and the Ministry of Finance estimates that this amount will be enough at this stage.
Wrong? We'll fix it! If you find a mistake in the article, please share with us