Israeli Government Allocates Over 45 Million Shekels to Boost Tourism and Rabbinical Courts in West Bank

The Israeli government approved two major budget decisions on Sunday to invest a total of 45 million shekels in the West Bank, aiming to enhance tourism infrastructure and strengthen the rabbinical court system. This move aligns with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's agenda to prioritize pioneering settlements and reinforce religious and judicial institutions.

The Ministry of Tourism will receive 27 million shekels to develop a multi-year plan for statutory planning of tourism facilities across Judea and Samaria. This includes marketing designated plots to attract investors and visitors. Of this amount, 7 million shekels will be allocated evenly from 2026 to 2030 for planning, while 20 million shekels will be granted as administrative subsidies to establish, convert, or expand hotels, aiming to elevate the region’s hospitality standards.

In parallel, 18 million shekels were approved to bolster the rabbinical courts system, funded from the state budget’s interest and fees section. The allocation addresses urgent needs: 12 million shekels for enhanced security and cleaning services at court complexes, 3 million for professional training of judges and staff, and 3 million for technological upgrades to case management systems.

These budget approvals underscore the government’s strategic commitment to developing the heartland of Israel, supporting both the settlement enterprise and the religious-legal framework. The investments are seen as a continuation of a national effort to ensure the growth and strengthening of Judea and Samaria for future generations.