Netanyahu Eyes Blockchain, Warns of Reduced US Aid Amid Sanctions Fears

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed that Israel is preparing for the possibility of economic and banking sanctions, stating that he has requested a contingency plan utilizing blockchain technology as a potential alternative. In an interview, Netanyahu acknowledged concerns about such sanctions, noting the need to organize an "economy that bypasses" restrictions and mentioning work on currencies that can circumvent them. He confirmed that blockchain is one such alternative he is pursuing.

Netanyahu also projected a decrease in future American aid, warning that Israel cannot rely on the tens of billions of dollars in defense assistance previously secured. He attributed this shift to changes in the United States and advised Israelis to "organize and get used to" this new reality, emphasizing the need to strengthen defense independence and expand local production.

Addressing a dispute with the Bank of Israel, Netanyahu disagreed with Governor Amir Yaron's warnings about the defense budget's impact on the economy. He defended the necessity of a NIS 400 billion increase to the defense budget over the coming years, while admitting to waste within the defense establishment that needs correction.

Looking ahead to elections, Netanyahu expressed confidence that a victory for the right-wing bloc would positively impact the Tel Aviv stock exchange, while an opposition win or indecisive outcome could harm the market. He also pledged to dismantle the agricultural lobby and reform the Israel Land Authority, calling it a large monopoly that needs to be broken up. He also expressed optimism about advancing the milk reform.

Regarding housing, Netanyahu reiterated his plan to lower prices by building hundreds of thousands of new apartments, a strategy he credited for past price decreases. He also outlined plans to improve transportation infrastructure to connect the Galilee and Negev regions to central Israel.