Netanyahu Government Faces Criticism Over Reconstruction Plans
The Israeli government has come under fire for its slow implementation of reconstruction plans in northern Israel, despite announcing the allocation of billions of shekels for rebuilding efforts. According to a report by Calcalist, negotiations for a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah have progressed, but local leaders and residents express concerns that the agreement may leave them vulnerable without adequate security measures. Kiryat Shmona Mayor Avichai Stern criticized the proposed ceasefire as a 'surrender agreement,' emphasizing that residents would return to devastated areas without real guarantees for their safety.
The ongoing conflict has led to a significant exodus from Kiryat Shmona, with approximately 22,000 residents evacuated since the start of the war. The economic impact has been severe, with over 70% of small businesses closing and large factories relocating their operations to safer regions. The report highlights that 68% of those who may return will struggle to find employment due to the collapse of local economic activity.
Government's Response and Compensation Issues
Despite the government's announcement of NIS 2 billion ($550 million) earmarked for supporting indirectly affected businesses, the implementation of a comprehensive reconstruction plan remains lacking. Local mayors have voiced their frustrations, labeling the government's response as 'bureaucratic and ineffective.' Official data indicates that the war has caused extensive damage, with more than 2,700 reported cases in border villages and significant destruction in cities like Acre, Tiberias, and Haifa.
So far, the government has disbursed NIS 140 million (approximately $37 million) in compensation, but many residents feel this is insufficient given the scale of the destruction. The Knesset Finance Committee has proposed a new compensation package, but it has sparked controversy over disparities in support levels across different affected areas. Mayors, including Stern, have called for a more radical approach to address security and social threats, including the establishment of a buffer zone along the border to enhance safety for returning residents.
