Daily Briefing Mar. 16: MKs on both sides contest cuts for northern recovery to bolster defense

Welcome to The Times of Israel’s Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what’s happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world.

Political reporter Ariela Karmel joins host Jessica Steinberg for today’s episode.

WATCH the full episode here:

As the Knesset increases its activity during the war against Iran, Karmel discusses the subjects up for debate, including controversial legislation that is not directly related to the war, such as the politically appointed probe into the October 7 massacre.

Following last week’s announcement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to enact a 3% cut across the government’s current budget to bolster defense spending, including the funds earmarked for the long-awaited rehabilitation of the northern communities, Karmel discusses the contentious debate among the residents, coalition and opposition.

Karmel also reports on the severe lack of shelters in Bedouin communities, predating October 7, brought to the forefront during last June’s war with Iran, which finds two-thirds of the community still without any access to shelter during the current war.

Check out The Times of Israel’s ongoing liveblog for more updates.

For further reading:

Coalition advancing controversial legislation amid war with Iran

Northern communities protest cuts to rehabilitation budget amid war

As Hezbollah strongholds crop back up, northern farmers regrow destroyed fields

With missiles flying again, most Negev Bedouin still exposed without any shelter

Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by Ari Schlacht.

Check out yesterday’s episode here: