Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) reports that Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon refused requests from Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat to increase the Jerusalem budget. Treasury officials explain “Jerusalem City Hall never received as much money as it has in recent years and it appears the city suffers from management issues. It is an outrage that Nir Barkat is using public funds for his own personal advancement. If Barkat has political aspirations he should use his own private money”.

Treasury officials add that Kahlon will be meeting in the coming days with Minister of Jerusalem Affairs Ze’ev Elkin to discuss the needs of the capital.

Jerusalem City Hall responds, stating “The Finance Minister must explain how he has not found time to meet since taking office, or respond to inquiries pertaining to those businesses hit hard by the security situation. Especially at this time, this is not a personal matter but one of national interest. We are calling on Kahlon to stop cutting himself off from Jerusalem and dealing with petty politics but to announce his widespread support for the capital and not hold residents and merchants hostage. Without a doubt, at this difficult time, helping Jerusalem is above all”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)