IDF and Defense Ministry Demand Increased Budget to Build Protective Outposts in Gaza and South Lebanon

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Ministry of Defense are in a sharp dispute with the Finance Ministry over the 2026 budget, demanding an additional 40 to 45 billion shekels to raise the annual defense budget to between 183 and 188 billion shekels, up from the original 112 billion shekels. The Defense Ministry warns that the budget impasse is preventing the purchase of spare parts for tanks, armored personnel carriers such as the Namer and Eitan, and naval vessels, leading to the shutdown of a significant number of operational military systems.

This budget shortfall has also halted the construction of military outposts and bases along the "yellow lines" in Gaza and southern Lebanon, which defense officials say undermines soldiers' ability to operate and protect themselves in these sensitive areas. Without a timely budget agreement, production lines for artillery shells will be suspended, and reserve soldiers may be released despite operational needs. Furthermore, future procurement from the United States could be jeopardized.

Earlier, Amir Baram, CEO of the Ministry of Defense and a retired general, criticized the Finance Ministry at the Herzliya Conference, stating that Israel's long-term military buildup is dangerously delayed. He accused the Finance Ministry's Budget Department of treating the current security challenges as a "passing accounting event," thereby undermining the government's ability to implement previously approved long-term defense plans.