Operation protective edge, the IDF’s counter terrorism operation against Hamas in Gaza, began on July 8, 2014, lasting for seven weeks, until August 26, 2014. Since the ceasefire, 4,579 claims for direct damage to property have been filed with state agencies. These claims include damage to vehicles, homes, apartments and the agriculture industry.

State officials’ report 99% of the claims have been addressed and a total of 123 million NIS have been paid out according to date recently released by tax authorities.

However there have been other expenses, including indirect loss to the economy including loss of income and salary. Claims in this area number 25,249 and tax officials report almost 90% have been addressed and paid out. The state paid out 1.345 billion NIS.

Regarding claims that are still pending, plaintiffs have received advances in payment. This pertains to 3,100 claims.

In addition, the Defense Ministry has allocated 30 million NIS for 63,000 IDF reservists who served in Operation Protective Edge. Payment to these soldiers and officers is still ongoing. The minimum payment to reservists is 100 NIS and some will receive as much as 15,000 NIS.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)