Tkuma Directorate Unveils Unprecedented NIS 1.5 Billion Project to Rebuild Western Negev Settlements Damaged in Hamas Attack

This week, the Tkuma Directorate announced a project to rebuild settlements in the Western Negev that were damaged during the Hamas attack on October 7-8, 2023. The ten most severely impacted communities will collectively receive NIS 1.5 billion for reconstruction, which is five times the usual compensation they would receive from the IRS. A majority of this funding will go towards three settlements – Kfar Aza, Be’eri, and Nir Oz – where over 100 buildings face demolition and 200-300 buildings require significant repairs.

Seven additional settlements – Nirim, Reim, Kerem Shalom, Ein HaShlosha, Cholit, Kisufim, and Nahal Oz – will also receive tens of millions of shekels for restoration efforts. Each of the ten settlements will have discretion over the allocated funds and make decisions regarding their own recovery process. The Tkum management has set two conditions for the distribution of funds: settlements must establish a support agreement with a licensed management company and at least 60% of the funds must be used for housing restoration.

The remaining settlements affected by the October 7 attack have already received compensation from the tax department and will receive additional funding to expand repair work. This initiative aims to support the affected communities in rebuilding their homes and infrastructure following the devastating attack.