Defense Industry Chiefs Warn PM of Military Capability Damage Over Funding Freeze

Heads of Israel's defense industries have sent an urgent warning letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that the failure to transfer 40 billion shekels threatens national security. The industry leaders are concerned that production lines for certain munitions may be shut down within the next month due to the lack of government orders and commitments.

The letter highlights that without immediate government action, the defense industries face a halt in production, which will impair the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) ability to carry out its missions. They are calling for emergency measures to maintain production continuity.

In response to the looming budget crisis, the IDF is preparing to implement immediate cuts to its operations to avoid a deficit. These measures include reducing reserve duty days, which will increase the burden on regular soldiers, and halting the repair and refurbishment of tanks and armored personnel carriers damaged during combat.

Further cuts are expected to impact long-term procurement, with orders for combat helicopters and aircraft likely to be delayed for years. Defense officials are warning that these reductions could significantly degrade the military's capabilities at a time when multiple conflict fronts remain active and operational readiness is crucial.