Criminal Networks in Negev and Galilee Tighten Grip on Israeli Infrastructure and Economy
Yoel Zilberman, CEO of Shomer HaHadash, has raised concerns about the growing influence of criminal organizations in Israel's Negev and Galilee regions. According to Zilberman, these groups have moved beyond the fringes and now significantly impact the country's economy and infrastructure. He highlights issues such as widespread theft of water, electricity, and fuel, including jet fuel, which burden Israeli citizens financially. Additionally, a large-scale drug industry operates within IDF firing zones, further complicating the situation. Zilberman criticizes the extortion practices that have become embedded in Israel's economic framework, with protection payments being a common requirement for infrastructure projects. He describes this as a 'state within a state,' where criminal organizations have taken control of critical national infrastructure. The proliferation of illegal weapons, estimated between 300,000 and 450,000, poses an existential threat, according to Zilberman. 
