“We’ll Finish This War” — Netanyahu’s Urgent IDF Directive Incoming
In post-fast government meeting, PM outlines military and economic agenda, announces major development plan for southern Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Israeli government on Monday following the postponement of the regular Sunday session due to Tisha B’Av. He opened with reflections on the fast day and moved swiftly to outline the military and national priorities ahead.
“1,955 years ago, on the evening of Tisha B’Av, we suffered the greatest calamity in our history, one that changed the course of Jewish destiny,” Netanyahu said. “Back then, we were divided and at war with each other. Today, in the midst of a powerful war, we’ve made historic achievements, because we stood united and fought together. We must continue doing so to fully achieve our three war goals: defeating the enemy, returning our hostages, and ensuring Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.”
The prime minister announced he will convene the security cabinet later this week to give the IDF specific directives on how to reach those three goals. Simultaneously, he introduced two major development plans for southern Israel, totaling 3.2 billion shekels, aimed at rebuilding and expanding the region.
The first initiative focuses on the city of Ashkelon. “About a month ago I visited the EAPC site there with Mayor Tomer Glam and declared that Ashkelon will grow like never before and it’s happening,” Netanyahu said. “We will invest in education, infrastructure, culture, sports, and the local economy.”
The second initiative covers a broader range of localities in the western Negev, including Ofakim, Netivot, Merhavim, Eshkol, Sha’ar HaNegev, and Sdot Negev. Plans include industrial zones, innovation centers, and the establishment of Israel’s first Paralympic village for athletes with disabilities.
Netanyahu thanked interim Director General Drorit Steinmetz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for their roles in advancing the plans. “This is a direct boost to the region, to those who have stood strong since the war began,” he said. “The government is committed to supporting you in every way.”
Smotrich echoed the message of unity, calling the two government decisions “historic.” He noted that many of these communities had been neglected for decades, and described the new funding as a game-changing boost. “This is how we win, by building, growing, and developing the land,” he concluded.