JNF Chairman Calls for Government Change, Details Reconstruction Efforts
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrovsky called for the current government to be replaced.
- He defended his public support for Gadi Eisenkot as a political leader.
- The JNF has invested nearly 4 billion shekels in Gaza envelope and northern reconstruction.
- The organization is also involved in commemoration projects for war victims.
- Ostrovsky wishes to continue as JNF chairman.
Eyal Ostrovsky, Chairman of the Jewish National Fund (JNF), defended his public endorsement of Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of "Yashar!", stating it is no different from political affiliations of other public figures like Haim Bibas, chairman of the Center for Local Government, or Yaakov Hagoel, chairman of the World Zionist Organization. Ostrovsky explained that leaders are elected through political processes and represent various political viewpoints. He asserted that while remaining silent would be easier, leadership requires action during difficult times, and he believes it is imperative to replace the current government with one that offers change and hope, endorsing Eisenkot as the right person for this transition.
Ostrovsky detailed the JNF's extensive involvement in rehabilitating communities in the Gaza envelope and the northern border following the extensive damage caused by the war. He emphasized that the JNF's mission has always been to develop settlements in Israel, and post-October 7th, this includes the critical need for reconstruction in these war-torn areas. The JNF has invested significantly, including 75 million shekels in Nir Oz, with plans for 100 million, and is expanding efforts to other kibbutzim and communities in the north and south.
Beyond reconstruction, the JNF is also heavily involved in commemoration projects. This includes the Re'im picnic site, honoring victims of the Nova music festival and other attacks, and the "Swords of Iron Forest," dedicated to those who fell or were murdered since October 7th. Ostrovsky highlighted that the JNF has invested nearly 2 billion shekels in the Gaza envelope and a similar amount in the northern region over the past three years, a substantial commitment given the JNF's annual budget of approximately 4 billion shekels. He expressed his desire to continue as JNF chairman, viewing it as a significant platform for fulfilling the organization's mission and enhancing its standing.