Israel Government to Approve NIS 100 Million Growth Plan for Eastern Negev

JERUSALEM (VINnews) — The Israeli government is set to approve a NIS 100 million ($31 million) plan to spur demographic growth and economic development in the Eastern Negev, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced today.

The plan, which cabinet ministers are expected to formally adopt Sunday during a special meeting in Dimona, allocates funding for infrastructure, public safety, transportation, innovation and energy projects in Arad, Dimona, Yeruham and Mitzpe Ramon, according to a joint statement from Netanyahu and Smotrich.

Officials said the initiative will support planning for a new airfield in Mitzpe Ramon, enhance police presence, expand public buildings and increase urban forestry. Significant funding also will go toward formal and informal education programs.

“The goal of this program is to bolster local resilience, attract new populations and create high-quality engines of growth in the region,” the statement said.

The investment builds on recent government spending in the Negev. Netanyahu noted that more than NIS 3.2 billion ($994 million) has been directed to the area in recent months, including initiatives aimed at transforming Beersheba into a major urban center.