Demand for billions: The fierce clash between the Treasury and Defense Ministry

The Defense and Finance Ministries are locked in a bitter dispute over a multi-billion shekel budget. The Defense Ministry argues that the new security reality since October 7 requires massive investment in force building, while the Finance Ministry accuses them of exploiting the election period for a budget spin. Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to decide.

The Defense and Finance Ministries are locked in a bitter dispute over a multi-billion shekel budget increase, amid an election period and ongoing security threats. The Defense Ministry and IDF argue that the new security reality since October 7 requires massive investment in force building, equipment, and military rehabilitation. They note that a government-approved budget increase of over 30 billion shekels from March has yet to be implemented, and that IDF buildup has stalled. They further warn that without payment for new attack helicopters, the Americans will transfer the production line to another army. On the other hand, the Finance Ministry claims that the IDF and Defense Ministry are exploiting the complex security reality and the election period for a budget spin. A Finance Ministry official says the dispute must not become an "election carnival." Prime Minister Netanyahu is expected to decide, after meeting with opposition leader Yair Lapid, who requested to transfer the money from coalition funds. The article takes a clear stance against Lapid, describing his conduct as an "irresponsible political escape."