Israel to redirect $840 million from public services to defense

The Israeli government is expected to approve a 4.9 percent reduction in budget allocations, totaling approximately $840 million, to redirect funds toward urgent defense procurement. The proposed cuts will affect several ministries, including education, healthcare, social protection, and transportation.

This move follows a recent decision to allocate $323 million for the purchase of American Apache combat helicopters, a cost largely covered by reducing funds intended for a five-year economic development plan for Israel’s Arab community. If the new proposal is passed, total defense-related spending from these two decisions will exceed $1.1 billion.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid stated that while defense acquisitions are necessary, they should be financed without cutting funds for education and social protection. He criticized the government for leaving funds intended for coalition partners untouched. Legal advisors and professional services have warned that these measures could significantly impact the functioning of public services. The budget changes come ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for October 27.