Local Leaders Urge Netanyahu to Block Housing Official's Dismissal

Dozens of Israeli local authority heads have appealed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to prevent the dismissal of Yehuda Eliyahu, the acting director of the Israel Land Authority (ILA). Housing Minister Haim Katz intends to summon Eliyahu for a hearing prior to termination, a move the local leaders warn would "gravely harm the development of the Negev and Galilee." Netanyahu had previously intervened to halt the dismissal process.

The mayors and council heads expressed their opposition in a letter, emphasizing Eliyahu's crucial role in advancing development projects, particularly in the northern and southern regions of Israel. They argue that his removal would create significant instability within the ILA and impede ongoing efforts to expand housing and infrastructure in these areas.

The local leaders are requesting that Netanyahu intervene directly to ensure Eliyahu's continued tenure, citing his perceived effectiveness and commitment to regional development. They believe his departure would send a negative signal to investors and developers interested in the Negev and Galilee, potentially stalling vital economic and population growth initiatives.