Defense Minister Israel Katz: “I call on Opposition Leader Lapid to support the IDF’s request for additional funding. We are facing dramatic security challenges that require decisions to be made now. The regional reality does not allow us to wait: the threats are evolving, our enemies continue to act, and we must ensure that the IDF is prepared and equipped for any development. Delays in providing the necessary resources could have direct consequences for the IDF’s readiness and the security of Israel’s citizens.”

I am calling on Opposition Leader Yair Lapid to support the IDF’s urgent request for additional funding through agreed-upon legislation in the Knesset, in order to enable the IDF to continue operating—including increased payments to reservists, maintaining security zones to protect residents along the borders, procuring munitions, restoring the IDF’s readiness for the continuation of the campaign, and building Israeli-made capabilities in the defense industries for both defense and offense against the threats ahead.

We are facing dramatic security challenges that require decisions and action now. The regional reality does not allow us to wait: the threats are evolving, our enemies continue to act, and we must ensure that the IDF is prepared and equipped for any development. Delays in providing the necessary resources could have direct consequences for the IDF’s readiness and the security of Israel’s citizens.

It would not be right to tie the issue of security to the usual political dispute with the government over various budget items.

For the avoidance of doubt, the economic situation is good, and the required funds are available in the state treasury, but they require formal legislation in the Knesset. They are not connected to any tax increases or other budget items.

When I served as finance minister during the COVID-19 pandemic, Yair Lapid, as opposition leader, promised me—and followed through—that he would support every measure related to COVID expenditures.

It is regrettable that now, in the midst of an important military campaign that has achieved tremendous accomplishments on all fronts, but still has objectives that must be completed, he is refusing a similar request concerning national security.