Israeli 'Defense' Budget Focuses on Expanding Settlements and Establishing Military Bases in the West Bank

SadaNews Translation - An agreement between Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant regarding the latter's ministry budget for 2026 has revealed significant allocations for both settlement and military expansion in the West Bank.

According to the Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, a budget package estimated at approximately 725 million shekels has been agreed upon, to be distributed over three years, aimed at enhancing security in the West Bank.

The newspaper indicated that this will include the protection of roads used by settlers and Israeli military forces, paving roads, and establishing military bases for the Israeli army in those areas.

It also includes projects related to the eastern borders with Jordan.

It noted that this indicates an unannounced agreement to reduce the number of troops in the West Bank, especially at the eastern borders, while allocating significantly more funds for constructing and rehabilitating additional settlement outposts and paving roads for their benefit.