""Just the promo": What the left-wing minister wants to cut for right-wingers living in Judea and Samaria

8 June 2021   

The left-wing government has not yet been sworn in, and a substantial debate is already brewing with the designated Minister of Transportation, Meirav Michaeli. According to a report in Israel Today, a debate is underway between Ze'ev Elkin and Ayelet Shaked and Michaeli over the budget designated for the development of roads and transportation in Judea and Samaria. While Elkin and Shaked are demanding a budget similar to that passed by the current government, totaling approximately 2.5 billion shekels, Michaeli is opposed and is only prepared to allocate approximately one billion shekels. This is a fundamental debate with far-reaching implications, since the significance of paving roads in Judea and Samaria is considered a step towards applying sovereignty in practice. From Michaeli's statements during the coalition negotiations, it could be learned that she intends to focus mainly on the issue of public transportation, with an emphasis on public transportation on Shabbat. However, it now appears that she has no intention of giving up on issues with policy implications related to the portfolio she owns. Elkin and Michaeli deny the report in Israel Today. Minister Ofir Akunis responded: "The Land of Israel is in danger - and this is just the beginning. Michaeli is at least telling her truth, and you, members of Yamina and New Hope - is this your truth? Are you right-wing people, people who love the Land of Israel?" Minister Miri Regev responded: "This is just the promo. The flowers are for Bennett, Shaked, Elkin and Orbach, who brought us a dangerous left-wing government. My sisters and brothers in religious Zionism - raise a cry before it is too late. Do not allow them to sell the Land of Israel for positions.".