Jerusalem, 28 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israel’s government will compensate farmers hit by last year’s drought, under a new order signed by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Monday. The decision covers specified crops — including wheat, barley, and quinoa — grown in drought-declared areas such as the north, Jordan Valley, and south.
Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter warned that worsening drought threatens national food security, stressing the need for long-term planning. “Without prior preparation, the damage will be felt in every household in Israel,” he said.
The government also lowered water rates for agriculture and is drafting additional aid plans for sectors not covered by the current order.