Business Forum Distributes Rechargeable Digital Cards to Gaza Residents Amid Controversy

In a surprising move, the Business Forum, representing 200 of the largest companies in the Israeli economy, has initiated a distribution of rechargeable digital cards worth NIS 1,000 per person for residents of the Gaza Strip. While this endeavor began on Tuesday, there remains a significant number of citizens who have yet to apply to receive the vouchers.

So far, approximately 10,000 individuals have submitted applications to obtain these vouchers, a mere fraction of the tens of thousands residing in the affected areas, including the Otaf settlements, as well as the residents of Ofakim and Sderot who were forced to evacuate due to home damage. Notable members of the Business Forum include Fox, Big, Azrieli, Melisron, and Bank Hapoalim.

Notably, last week, the office of the Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich, announced its intention to push for a government decision to provide NIS 5,000 per family and NIS 1,000 per adult to Gaza Strip residents. This move stands in contrast to the stance of the professional echelon within the Ministry of Finance, who oppose it. The objection primarily arises from the financial implications, with an estimated cost of 10-20 million shekels. The funds are deemed necessary for addressing various government budget-related issues, including the allocation of resources for evacuating southern residents, securing housing throughout the country, house restoration, and property compensation. Additionally, there are tens of thousands more residents in Ofakim, Sderot, and other regional settlements who have yet to receive a viable solution.