Two positions and 700,000 shekels: the economic failure in Israel's preparedness for climate damage

A McKinsey study shows that investment in protection against climate damage saves three times its cost. In Israel, according to the State Comptroller, only three out of 28 bodies have formulated a feasible preparedness plan. The national authority operates with two positions and a budget of 700,000 shekels. 154 local authorities have not prepared a preparedness plan.

A new study by the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI), published on November 3, 2026, estimates that investment in protection against climate damage saves three times its cost, and in a scenario of two degrees of warming, the ratio may reach seven to one. However, in Israel, according to the State Comptroller's report from June 2026, only three out of 28 government ministries and public bodies have submitted a feasible preparedness plan that includes a budget estimate, timelines, and performance indicators. The National Climate Preparedness Authority operates with only two positions, one of which is borrowed, and its budget for 2026 stands at just 700,000 shekels. The drainage infrastructure in Nahariya, Ashkelon, and Jisr az-Zarqa is old and not adapted to updated rainfall scenarios, and the division of responsibility between local authorities and drainage authorities has not yet been regulated. 154 out of 257 local authorities have not prepared a preparedness plan. The National Security and Climate Forum in the National Security Council stopped dealing with climate policy in April 2026. The article notes that an earthquake of magnitude 4.5 that occurred this morning (Wednesday) south of Eilat illustrates the importance of early preparedness, although it is not related to climate change.