Palestine (Washington Insider) – The Israeli government
cut 220.7 million shekels from Palestinian development funds, redirecting them
to Shin Bet and police. Critics cite harm to Arab communities, under pressure
from ministers Ben-Gvir and Golan.
As MEM News reported, the Israeli government has decided to
cut 220.7 million shekels from the 5-year development budget for Palestinian
communities in the territories occupied in 1948. The money was meant for
education, culture, sports, youth programs, and the development of local
councils.
According to officials, the redirected revenue will go to
both the Israeli Security Service (Shin Bet) and the police. Officials also
indicated that funding would support efforts to combat crime and violence.
Arab leaders, human rights organisations, and community
organisations have all voiced strong opposition to this action. They believe
that the decision will harm Palestinian citizens of Israel, as well as diminish
support for the most critical infrastructure and community-based
services.
Critics have raised concerns that the redirecting of these
funds would exacerbate social disparities, increase frustration in already
marginalised communities and contribute to continuing patterns of neglect.
What is Israel doing
with 220.7M Shekels from Palestinian towns?
Analysts said the decision reflects a focus on security over
social development. They warned that cutting funds for education and youth
programs could limit opportunities for young people and weaken local
governance. Critics say the Israeli government’s decision to cut funding
directly harms the rights of Palestinian citizens.
The decision followed pressure from far-right National
Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Social Equality Minister May Golan. Both
ministers called
for reducing budgets for Arab towns and increasing funding for security forces.
They said the cuts were necessary to “strengthen security” in the country. The
decision came just before the state budget was approved.
In 2016, the government of Israel initiated a 5-year project
to enhance education, culture, athletic, youth programming, and municipal
councils for Arab citizens of Israel through enhancement of the community
structure. Since then, delays and reductions in funding throughout the life of
this project have raised concerns from the rights of the community and those
who lead the community.
