Israel’s defense ministry seeks $2.85B budget increase to confront Iran

By Ahmed Asmar

ANKARA (AA) – Israel’s Ministry of Defense on Monday requested an increase of $2.85 billion in the annual budget to bolster its efforts to confront Iran, according to local media.

Israeli public broadcaster KAN said the new increase aims to boost preparations to confront the Iranian nuclear program.

The ministry’s new budget includes a 17% increase from the current defense budget of $17.8 billion.

Israel accuses Iran of seeking to build a nuclear bomb, a claim denied by Tehran, which says its program is designed for peaceful purposes.

Iran has often in recent years accused its arch-foe Israel of carrying out espionage and sabotage acts at key nuclear, military and industrial facilities through local agents.

Last week, a new Israeli government headed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in.