Israel Launches $9.5 Million Program to Aid Businesses Targeted by Organized Crime

Israel's Ministry of Finance has announced a pilot program allocating 35 million shekels (approximately $9.5 million) to support businesses victimized by extortion and organized crime. The initiative, set to launch imminently and run for an initial two-month period, aims to compensate business owners for financial losses incurred from extortion attempts that are not covered by their insurance.

The program will be managed by the Property Tax Authority within the Israel Tax Authority. Its effectiveness will be evaluated based on its ability to help business owners continue their operations and encourage cooperation with law enforcement agencies. The government intends to provide financial protection to merchants, farmers, and business owners who refuse to pay criminal organizations.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged those affected not to comply with payment demands, assuring them of state financial support against retaliatory actions. The phenomenon of "protection money," known in Israel as "protektzia" or "criminal sponsorship," has been a persistent problem for businesses and agricultural operations, particularly in the Negev and Galilee regions.