The Knesset Finance Committee approved a series of transfers within Israel’s 2026 state budget Wednesday, including funding for protective shelters, an artificial intelligence headquarters, road safety and legal representation abroad.

Under the changes, NIS 81 million will be transferred from the Defense Ministry’s budget to civilian emergency spending. The money will fund the purchase and deployment of protective shelters nationwide, implementing a government decision based on lessons learned from Operation Lion’s Roar.

The committee also approved an internal transfer of approximately NIS 67 million within the Prime Minister’s Office to fund an artificial intelligence headquarters.

For infrastructure and land development, lawmakers approved a NIS 30 million transfer and authorization to commit approximately NIS 852 million for Israel Land Authority development activities. The funding will also support long-term land rehabilitation projects, including the treatment of former industrial sites.

An additional NIS 30 million will be allocated to the National Road Safety Program.

The Justice Ministry’s budget allocations will be adjusted through internal transfers totaling NIS 74 million. Part of the funding will support the government’s legal representation abroad amid increased activity by the Universal Jurisdiction Unit since the outbreak of the Swords of Iron war.

Allocations for the Public Defender’s Office and legal aid will also be adjusted to reflect the pace of implementation.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)