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Ongoing Story· Day 2

Netanyahu Explores Blockchain as Sanction Alternative Amid Growing International Pressure

25 developments

KipaEconomy

Netanyahu's Crypto Plan Sparks Fierce Criticism, Bank of Israel Rejects Idea

Translated & summarized from Kipa by baba

Religious-rightCharged tone

Hebrew · 4 newsrooms covering

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to use cryptocurrency to counter potential economic sanctions has been rejected by the Bank of Israel, which advises focusing on preventing sanctions. Netanyahu also warned of potential cuts to U.S. security aid. Political rivals, including Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid, strongly criticized the proposal, warning of severe economic consequences and a threat to national security.

The story in 5 lines · by baba

  • Prime Minister Netanyahu's cryptocurrency plan to bypass sanctions was rejected by the Bank of Israel.
  • Netanyahu warned of potential cuts to U.S. security aid following Donald Trump's presidency.
  • Naftali Bennett stated sanctions could lead to the "destruction of Israeli high-tech" and endanger security.
  • Yair Lapid claimed U.S. aid would be cut and sanctions imposed if Netanyahu's government is re-elected.
  • The Bank of Israel advised focusing on preventing sanctions and maintaining trade relations.
Netanyahu's Crypto Plan Sparks Fierce Criticism, Bank of Israel Rejects Idea
Editorial illustration generated by baba News, not a photograph of the event.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to use cryptocurrency as a means to circumvent potential economic sanctions has drawn sharp criticism from the Bank of Israel and political rivals. The Bank of Israel stated that decentralized currencies cannot serve as a bypass for sanctions and emphasized that Israel should focus on preventing them. Netanyahu, in an interview, expressed concerns about a potential shift in U.S. policy towards Israel after the end of Donald Trump's presidency, warning that the substantial U.S. security aid to Israel might cease.

Netanyahu revealed that one of his contingency plans involves preparing for such a scenario through the use of decentralized currencies, including blockchain technology. Responding to the Bank of Israel's stance, Netanyahu stated, "I thank them for the advice, but I am doing what I think is right." He also indicated that America has changed and that the billions of dollars in security aid previously received might not continue.

Political opponents also voiced strong objections. Naftali Bennett, Chairman of the Yamina Party, warned that sanctions could lead to the "destruction of Israeli high-tech," widespread job losses, poverty, severe damage to tourism and businesses, and a "real danger to Israel's security." Bennett further accused Netanyahu of aligning Israel with countries like Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

Opposition Chairman Yair Lapid echoed these concerns, claiming that if Netanyahu's government is re-elected, U.S. security aid would be cut off and severe economic sanctions would be imposed on Israel.

KipaRight · Jerusalem

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