National Security Ministry Reports Near Full Budget Execution for Arab Society Crime Programs

Official budget execution data from Israel's National Security Ministry reveals that programs aimed at combating crime and violence in the Arab community have achieved near-complete implementation, with execution rates ranging from 96% to 105%. These figures counter media criticism directed at the ministry and Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir regarding the handling of this issue.

The data, managed by the National Community Security Directorate, shows high utilization of funds allocated for violence prevention, strengthening local authorities, and enhancing community security. The "Stopping the Bleeding" initiative, targeting severe violence and personal security in specific "red" localities like Umm al-Fahm, Rahat, and Lod, saw 100% execution in 2022 and 2023, and 97% in 2024. Despite budget cuts, the program continued as planned in 2025.

Similarly, the "Community Model" program, focused on local activity and authority funding, reported 100% execution in 2022, 97% in 2023, and 96% in 2024. The "Doing Neighborhood" project, which combines social activities, youth leadership development, and environmental improvement in complex neighborhoods of mixed cities such as Acre and Ramla, exceeded its planned budget, achieving 105% execution in 2024.

In addition to budget implementation, Minister Ben-Gvir has integrated the Shin Bet security agency into the fight against serious crime and organized crime within the Arab community, with additional budgets allocated for this purpose. Ben-Gvir's office stated that the figures demonstrate the effectiveness of the ministry's efforts, refuting media claims and emphasizing the high budget execution rates.