Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich is facing accusations of racism from mayors of Palestinian towns in Israel after revealing financial cuts to the 2025 state budget. Smotrich plans to make fiscal adjustments that will impact the already-disadvantaged Arab communities, leading to a reduction of essential services and exacerbating poverty and violence.
The National Religious Zionism party leader justified the cuts by referencing Israel’s military operation in Gaza, which resulted in thousands of Palestinian casualties. However, the decision has sparked outrage among Palestinian mayors who claim the funds were intended for economic development and infrastructure improvements in their towns.
The withholding of funds prompted the National Committee of Heads of Arab Local Authorities to file a lawsuit against Smotrich, who baselessly claimed the money could be used for criminal or terror activities. Mayors are warning of the dire consequences if the funds are not released, including cuts to education, welfare programs, and basic services.
This latest episode highlights the discriminatory practices faced by Palestinian citizens of Israel, with statistics showing higher rates of poverty and lower life expectancy compared to Israeli Jewish counterparts. Smotrich’s controversial comments and policies have further marginalized Palestinian communities, raising concerns about their economic and social well-being.
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