Nearly two weeks after tax inspectors were attacked while conducting enforcement activities in Bnei Brak, the Israel Tax Authority announced it will resume operations in the city under enhanced security measures. The move will also restore the War Compensation Fund's services for residents whose homes were damaged during the war with Iran.
In a letter to the State Employees Union chairman, the Tax Authority said a new security framework had been finalized following discussions with Bnei Brak police. The plan incorporates security requirements demanded by the union and Tax Authority employees.
Tax Authority personnel entering Bnei Brak and other communities deemed to present elevated security risks will do so only after advance coordination and with a police escort. The plan also includes enhanced technological security measures, expanded insurance coverage, and additional hazard pay for employees.
The dispute began after Income Tax inspectors conducting operations in Bnei Brak were pelted with egg cartons by local residents and had to be rescued by police. Following the incident, the Tax Authority suspended all operations in the city, including processing of compensation claims for war-damaged property, until the municipality publicly condemned the attack.
After a meeting with Bnei Brak's mayor, the Tax Authority agreed in principle to resume operations. The State Employees Union insisted that workers would not return until adequate security arrangements were in place.
With the new security plan approved, the Tax Authority announced that operations in Bnei Brak will resume immediately, with emphasis on ensuring the safety of its employees.