The Movement for Quality Government in Israel calls on the government to close unnecessary government ministries, act immediately to draw up a responsible budget for 2025 and present a clear economic plan for the long term.
Following the downgrading of Israel’s credit rating by Fitch, Adv Ariel Barzilai, head of the economic department at the Movement for the Quality of Government, comments:
“The downgrading of Israel’s credit rating is a serious warning sign for the country’s economic situation and the way public resources are managed. This is a resounding failure of the government in managing the economy in this critical period.
These data indicate a lack of fiscal responsibility and the lack of long-term planning, and endanger the economic stability of the Israeli economy.
In light of this, the Movement for Quality Government in Israel calls on the government to:
1. Immediately close unnecessary government ministries and stop the transfer of political ‘coalition funding’
2. Act immediately to formulate a responsible and transparent budget for 2025, with an emphasis on reducing the deficit and lowering the debt-to-GDP ratio.
3. Present a clear economic plan for the long term, which will include concrete steps to encourage growth and maintain fiscal stability.
4. Increase transparency with regard to government spending, especially in the defense sector, and ensure that every public shekel is used efficiently and responsibly.
5. Carry out structural reforms that will strengthen economic institutions and increase investor confidence in the Israeli economy.
The downgrade is a failing grade for the economic policy led by Finance Minister Smotrich and Prime Minister Netanyahu, and a wake-up call for all of us. The time has come for the government to act responsibly, transparently and professionally for Israel’s economic future. We in the Movement for Quality Government in Israel will continue to monitor, comment and act for responsible and transparent economic management, which will serve the public interest and ensure Israel’s long-term economic resilience.”
