Finance Ministry Accuses Defense Ministry of Delaying Reservist Benefits, Impacting Summer Vacations

Israel's Finance Ministry has accused the Defense Ministry of failing to distribute benefits to reservists despite the budget being transferred on time. Finance Ministry Director-General Israel Malachi sent a letter to Defense Ministry Director-General Amir Baram, revealing that although the full budget for reservist benefits was allocated in advance, reservists have yet to receive their entitled vacation vouchers and digital "Fighter" cards. Malachi emphasized that the delay, attributed to unclear administrative reasons, undermines the purpose of these benefits, which are intended to support reservists and their families during the July-August summer vacation period.

The "Fighter" card, launched in September 2025 in collaboration with the Defense Ministry, Finance Ministry, and IDF, is automatically credited based on the number of reserve duty days served, with a minimum of 10 days per year and a maximum annual credit of 5,000 shekels. It can be used at designated businesses such as restaurants, cafes, clothing stores, and entertainment venues. Alongside the card, reservists receive family vacation vouchers. Malachi warned that the delay in distributing these benefits during the peak vacation season effectively empties their intended value.

The Defense Ministry responded that the vacation grants will be provided in August and the "Fighter" card benefits in September, consistent with the previous year. This dispute is not the first between the two ministries regarding reservist benefits. The Finance Ministry has previously criticized the Defense Ministry's management under Baram, accusing it of poor administration and inefficient handling of funds, which has negatively affected reservists and their families.

Past issues include delays in voucher distribution following the October 7 war, with initial distributions only starting in March 2025 instead of the planned second half of 2024. Additionally, thousands of reservists were required last summer to return some vouchers or reimburse expenses due to retroactive eligibility recalculations by the IDF, a move later softened after public outcry. The "Fighter" card has also faced criticism for a sudden reduction in participating businesses shortly after its launch, without explanation.

The Finance Ministry's letter and ongoing criticism highlight continuing tensions over the management and timely delivery of benefits meant to honor and support Israel's reservists.