🛡️ ISRAEL EXPANDS MILITARY SUPPLY LINES, BOOSTS DEFENSE PRODUCTION, ECONOMY OUTPERFORMS G7, AND IMPLEMENTS BEREAVED FAMILIES REFORM

🛳️ EXPANDED AIR AND SEA MILITARY SUPPLY LIFT: Within 24 hours, Israel received approximately 6,500 tons of military equipment via two cargo ships and multiple transport aircraft, delivered through Haifa and Ashdod ports. The shipments included air and ground munitions, JLTV vehicles, military trucks, and operational gear, distributed nationwide using hundreds of transport vehicles.

The operation was coordinated by the Defense Ministry’s U.S. procurement delegation, international transport units, and IDF planning bodies, with oversight by Director-General Amir Baram. Since February 28, a total of over 115,600 tons has arrived through 403 airlifts and 10 sea shipments, with officials indicating continued expansion of procurement efforts.

🏭 DEFENSE PRODUCTION ACCELERATION AND INDEPENDENCE STRATEGY: Senior defense officials and industry leaders met to assess readiness and accelerate procurement, as Israel advances efforts to ensure sustained operational capacity under prolonged emergency conditions. Discussions included increasing domestic production and reducing reliance on external supply chains.

Defense companies reported record production levels operating continuously, driven by operational demand. Baram emphasized long-term goals of munitions independence while addressing financial obligations to defense firms, and marked a leadership transition at Tomer, noting its role in accelerating Arrow interceptor production.

📈 ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OUTPACES DEVELOPED ECONOMIES: Israel’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience during ongoing conflict, with IMF projections placing 2026 GDP growth at 3.5%, exceeding that of the United States and European Union. Growth is expected to rise further to 4.4% in 2027, with the Bank of Israel projecting 3.8% this year and potential expansion up to 5.5% depending on conditions.

Macroeconomic indicators remain stable, including 1.9% inflation within target range, unemployment at 3.2%, and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 69.8%, significantly below G7 levels. Capital markets show continued strength, with major indices rising and the shekel appreciating against the dollar, supported by sustained foreign investment and strong performance in technology, energy, and defense exports.

⚖️ EXPANDED SUPPORT FOR BEREAVED FAMILIES IMPLEMENTED: Amendment 47 to the bereaved families law has entered implementation, extending financial support to orphans, widows, and families of fallen soldiers through both grants and expanded monthly payments. The reform broadens eligibility across age groups and increases long-term assistance levels.

Thousands of beneficiaries are receiving payments, including fixed monthly stipends for orphans across different age brackets, substantial one-time grants for older groups, and targeted childcare and compensation support for widows. The policy reflects a structural expansion of state responsibility toward families affected by military loss.

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