Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has halted government funding for the Michal Sela Forum, an organization dedicated to protecting women from domestic abuse. This decision comes despite the organization’s innovative approaches to safeguarding women, including the provision of panic buttons and the pairing of women with trained guard dogs. The Media Line’s Simcha Pasko delves into the implications of this funding cut [1], especially during a time when domestic violence is on the rise due to wartime conditions.
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Lili Ben Ami, the forum’s executive director and sister of Michal Sela, for whom the forum is named, criticizes the government’s justification for the funding cut, labeling the allegations of fund misappropriation as “100% lies.” The organization, which has aided hundreds of women and children, now faces the challenge of continuing its essential services without government support. This move has sparked concern among advocates for women’s safety, particularly as domestic violence incidents have surged during the conflict.
For a comprehensive analysis of how this decision affects the fight against domestic violence in Israel and for more insights from those directly involved, visit The Media Line’s website and read Simcha Pasko’s full report [1].