Israel’s Ministry of Defense on Monday requested an increase of $2.85 billion in the annual budget to bolster its efforts to confront Iran, according to local media.
Israeli public broadcaster KAN said the new increase aims to boost preparations to confront the Iranian nuclear program.
The ministry’s new budget includes a 17% increase from the current defense budget of $17.8 billion.
Israel accuses Iran of seeking to build a nuclear bomb, a claim denied by Tehran, which says its program is designed for peaceful purposes.
Also read: Dubai ends tax on alcohol sale, liquor license fee
Iran has often in recent years accused its arch-foe Israel of carrying out espionage and sabotage acts at key nuclear, military and industrial facilities through local agents.
Last week, a new Israeli government headed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ