Israeli Education Ministry Considers Cutting Funding to Teachers' Union Amid Dispute with Minister

The Israeli Ministry of Education is examining the possibility of halting the transfer of millions of shekels to the Teachers' Union following allegations that the union falsely registered around 2,000 teachers to receive unauthorized funds. This investigation coincides with a personal campaign by Teachers' Union Chairman Ran Erez against Education Minister Yoav Kish. The ministry claims the probe began several months ago, while the union denies any knowledge of such an investigation, calling it political retaliation by Kish.

The Ministry of Education responded to the allegations by accusing Ran Erez of using threats and political campaigns at the expense of teachers, emphasizing the minister's commitment to educators, students, and the education system. Meanwhile, the Teachers' Union stated it operates legally under constant supervision from the Education Ministry, Finance Ministry, and the Registrar of Associations, denying any irregularities in its reporting.

Last week, Ran Erez threatened to strike in high schools if teachers were not compensated for a "17-hour war" workday related to Iran. He criticized Minister Kish for neglecting teacher consultations and focusing on politics rather than education. Kish's office countered by highlighting Erez's 30-year tenure with no significant achievements, accusing him of harming students by repeatedly resorting to strikes and personal attacks against education ministers.

The dispute reflects ongoing tensions between the Teachers' Union and the Education Ministry, with potential impacts on funding and the upcoming school year.