Knesset Security Committee Chair Urges Immediate Transfer of Defense Budget Funds to Ministry of Defense

Boaz Bismut, chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, sent an urgent letter on July 21, 2026, to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich demanding the immediate transfer of agreed defense budget funds to the Ministry of Defense. Bismut highlighted a multi-billion shekel shortfall, noting that the approved 143 billion shekel defense budget and an additional 40 billion shekel supplement, including 12 billion shekels promised for immediate transfer by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have yet to be delivered by the Finance Ministry.

Bismut warned that the failure to transfer these funds threatens the Israel Defense Forces' operational readiness and capability. He explained that the lack of budget allocation disrupts the Defense Ministry and IDF's plans to restore readiness, replenish stockpiles, procure weapons, and maintain production lines for critical military platforms, which would also lead to economic inefficiencies.

Insiders familiar with the situation criticized the Finance Ministry's conduct as irresponsible at best and disgraceful at worst, accusing it of ignoring clear directives from the Prime Minister. Bismut expressed surprise during a committee discussion that the funds had not been transferred, prompting his urgent letter to Smotrich. The letter underscores growing tensions over budget implementation amid concerns about the military's preparedness.