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Israel Boosts Defense Budget Amid Ongoing Conflict Risks

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Israel's defense establishment has raised budget demands to 177 billion NIS amid conflicts with Iran and Hezbollah.
Government estimates war costs could total 50 billion NIS, with 20 billion spent in the first 15 days.
The Knesset has begun voting on a bill to raise the deficit ceiling to 5.1% of GDP.
The prolonged war threatens 2026 growth, with forecasts revised from 5.2% to 4.7%.

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Story summary

Israel's defense establishment has raised budget demands to 177 billion NIS amid conflicts with Iran and Hezbollah.
Government estimates war costs could total 50 billion NIS, with 20 billion spent in the first 15 days.
The Knesset has begun voting on a bill to raise the deficit ceiling to 5.1% of GDP.
The prolonged war threatens 2026 growth, with forecasts revised from 5.2% to 4.7%.