In a recent meeting convened at the Ministry of Finance, a significant plan has been mutually agreed upon by Benjamin Netanyahu and Bezalel Smotrich. The primary objective of this plan is to facilitate the return of the citizens of Sderot and the settlers of Otef Aza to their respective homes. The crucial meeting witnessed the presence of several pivotal figures including the heads of local councils, the general directors of the ministries of finance, representatives from the ministry of the head of government, and officials from the Tkuma department.
As per the proposed plan, it is anticipated that from March 1 onwards, residents of border settlements will have the opportunity to return to their homes, provided that the army does not implement any changes to the plan. However, those residents who prefer to extend their stay in hotels have been granted permission to do so until July 7.
One of the key decisions made during the meeting was in relation to the financial compensation to be given to the returning families. A one-time payment system has been agreed upon, with the payment varying depending on the size and structure of each family. For instance, a single person will receive a payment of 15,480 shekels. A married couple, on the other hand, will be entitled to 30,960 shekels. If the couple has a child, the payment will increase to 38,700 shekels. For a married couple blessed with two or more children, the payment will further increase to 46,400 shekels.
However, it’s important to note that the final amount provided to each family will be determined based on a variety of factors. These will include the date of return as well as the specific needs of each family during their period of readjustment and adaptation.
Finally, the office of the head of government has announced that a draft version of the decision will be presented to the government for approval in the upcoming days. This draft will serve as a trial run, allowing for any necessary adjustments to be made before the decision is fully implemented.
