Ben Gvir and Kisch Threaten to Block Budget Over School Security Funding

National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Education Minister Yoav Kisch warned: they will oppose the government’s budget proposal unless it includes dedicated funding for security at schools for the upcoming academic year.

“The security of Israel’s students comes before all else,” Kisch said in a statement. “It is inconceivable that while humanitarian aid to Gaza is being expanded, Israel’s students will be left without protection. We demand that the Finance Ministry close the budget gap and ensure full security at every school.”

Ben Gvir echoed the call, emphasizing the stakes for children nationwide.

“At a time when the Finance Ministry wants to expand the budget for humanitarian aid, it is harming the security of our children,” he said. “This is a disgrace that cannot be accepted.”

The warning comes as the Finance Ministry prepares to present the budget to the government, and amid a looming labor dispute with the teachers union that could further delay the September 1 start of the school year. Last week, Kisch noted that without additional funding for security personnel, school openings could be postponed.

The ministers’ insistence highlights a growing debate over balancing domestic security needs with broader fiscal priorities, particularly as the government allocates funds for humanitarian aid abroad.