Netanyahu announces 32 billion shekel defense supplement — sustaining military ops while funding reconstruction

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced major budget allocations to sustain the war against Iran and support affected Israeli civilians. The plan includes an additional 32 billion shekels (approximately $8.7 billion) for defense, alongside funding for Gaza and northern settlement reconstruction, reserve forces, education, healthcare and welfare services. Netanyahu also highlighted investments in infrastructure, tax relief and a multi-year push into artificial intelligence and high-tech sectors. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich endorsed the budget, which Netanyahu described as 'critical to sustaining military operations while supporting civilians.' The 32-billion- shekel defense supplement is one of the largest single wartime defense appropriations in Israeli history. It signals that the Netanyahu government is planning for a sustained multi-month campaign rather than an imminent end, consistent with IDF spokesperson Shoshani's statement that Israel is 'prepared to keep operating for weeks to come.'