Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is insisting on cutting funds for Arab towns.There’s now a freeze on a higher education plan for East Jerusalem. Smotrich claims he is supported in his decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He also stated he would not transfer money set aside for economic development to local Arab authorities that were expecting to receive it.
His concern is that the funds could be used to finance organized crime. The decision has triggered accusations of racism and an outcry from community leaders who argue that the funds are essential for boosting the economy and fighting crime in Arab communities. Interior Minister Moshe Arbel warns this could cause significant damage to local authority budgetary balances. Smotrich responded that his decision is final, and the budget will not be transferred. He plans to find real ways to allocate money to Arab citizens of Israel and help where necessary.
The budget of 200 million shekels or around 55 million US dollars for Arab municipalities was approved by the previous government. Critics argue that this decision harms the Arab community and society as a whole.
