Government Approves Ambitious Plan for Rehabilitation - Funding Source Yet to Be Determined

In a significant move, the government has given the green light to a comprehensive plan for the rehabilitation and development of settlements surrounding Gaza and Sderot. The strategic five-year plan, devised by the Takuma administration, addresses key areas such as education, infrastructure, business, and agriculture, with a budget exceeding NIS 18 billion.

However, despite the approval, the program awaits budgetary backing. The Ministry of Finance has been tasked with identifying funding sources within 30 days, leaving local leaders skeptical about the plan's immediate implementation.

Local Leaders Demand Assurance and Amendments

Itamar Rabivo, head of the Ashkelon Beach Regional Council, criticized the lack of financial commitment, stating, "It's a plan with zero shekels." He emphasized the need for concrete budget backing to initiate rehabilitation efforts promptly.

Gadi Yarkoni, head of the Eshkol Regional Council, called for fundamental changes, urging the inclusion of all localities in the plan, an increase in the budget to NIS 40 billion, and an accelerated implementation timeline of 30 days.

Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi highlighted the necessity of eliminating security threats, stating, "First of all, even before the plans, we need to eliminate Hamas and create Israeli security control." He stressed the importance of budgetary support for the plan's success.

Leaders Seek Government Support

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the government's commitment to settlement rehabilitation, stating, "We are obliged to invest in education, employment, welfare, assistance to evacuees, agriculture, business, and all fields." He emphasized the aim of transforming communities and overcoming past challenges.

Brigadier General Moshe Adri, head of the Takuma administration, expressed optimism, calling the approval a "message of hope" and highlighting the government's commitment to the revival of settlements in the Gaza Envelope.

Awaiting Budgetary Assurance

While the government's approval marks a crucial step, the lack of a specified funding source has raised concerns among local leaders. The success of the ambitious plan hinges on the Ministry of Finance's prompt allocation of funds, a decision eagerly awaited by communities affected by the ongoing challenges in the region.