Israeli Government Approves Plan to Develop Communities on Gaza Border

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that "the cabinet approved today, Wednesday, a five-year plan worth 19 billion shekels (five billion dollars) to rebuild and strengthen residential communities near the border with the Gaza Strip following the attack by the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas on October 7." Netanyahu noted that Israel will invest this amount in housing, infrastructure, education, employment, health, and other areas. He added in a statement: "Hamas terrorists wanted to eradicate us, but we will eradicate them and solidify our roots." He continued: "We will build the land of Israel and protect our country." His office indicated that local communities will work with government ministries, the business sector, and charitable institutions to make the area "a vibrant, prosperous, and attractive region."