Rebuilding Hope: Tkuma Directorate Launches Historic Project to Reconstruct Settlements Damaged in Hamas Attack

This week, the Tkuma Directorate announced a new project to rebuild the settlements in the Western Negev that were damaged during the Hamas attack on October 7-8, 2023. The ten most severely impacted communities will collectively receive NIS 1.5 billion for reconstruction, which is five times the usual compensation they would receive from the IRS.

The initiative aims to support the affected communities in rebuilding their homes and infrastructure following the devastating attack. Seven additional settlements – Nirim, Reim, Kerem Shalom, Ein HaShlosha, Cholit, Kisufim, and Nahal Oz – will also receive tens of millions of shekels for restoration efforts. Each of the ten settlements will have discretion over the allocated funds and make decisions regarding their own recovery process.

To ensure that funds are distributed effectively, Tkum management has set two conditions for funding distribution: settlements must establish a support agreement with a licensed management company and at least 60% of the funds must be used for housing restoration. The remaining settlements affected by the October 7 attack have already received compensation from the tax department and will receive additional funding to expand repair work.

In total, this project represents a significant investment in rebuilding efforts for communities in the Western Negev that were deeply impacted by last year’s Hamas attack. It is hoped that this initiative will help these communities move forward and recover from this devastating event as quickly as possible.