Saar Supports Defense Cut

Education Minister Gidon Saar expressed support Wednesday for plans to cut the defense budget in order to free up funds for social benefits, including those provided by the Education Ministry. “There is no way to change the national list of priorities without chancing the balance of government expenses,” he said.

Defense officials have argued that military funding contributes to socio-economic strength as well as military prowess. Saar turned the argument around, saying, “Social security is a vital aspect of Israel's national security.”