Government Allocates NIS 360 Million for Soroka Hospital Rebuild Post Iranian Strike
The Israeli government has allocated NIS 360 million for the reconstruction of Soroka Medical Center following a devastating Iranian missile strike. This significant funding aims to establish a new, fortified inpatient tower known as the Rebirth Building at the primary tertiary hospital in southern Israel.
Funding and Contributions for Rebuilding Soroka Hospital
The decision to allocate these funds received unanimous approval. The financial package comprises NIS 160 million from the Health Ministry’s development budget and NIS 200 million reallocated from government spending. Clalit Health Services, which operates Soroka, plans to match the government’s contribution.
In addition, businessman Sylvan Adams announced a generous $100 million donation toward transforming Soroka into one of the most advanced medical centers in the Middle East. This dual funding aims to replace the facilities severely damaged during the strike.
Impact of the Missile Strike
In June, Soroka Medical Center sustained significant damage during Operation Rising Lion, when an Iranian missile directly hit the hospital. The attack destroyed eight operating rooms and various research facilities shared with Ben-Gurion University. Currently, over 300 hospital beds remain non-operational, exacerbating an already strained healthcare environment.
Improving Hospital Infrastructure
The forthcoming Rebirth Building will accommodate protected space for 70% of the hospital’s inpatient beds. It will also include critical facilities such as operating rooms and intensive care units, all designed according to national emergency preparedness standards.
Local leaders emphasized the hospital’s essential role in serving more than one million residents in southern Israel, including vulnerable Bedouin communities and border towns. Health Minister Haim Katz stressed that the reconstruction is crucial for maintaining healthcare standards in the region.
Challenges and Conditions at Soroka
- Prof. Asher Bashiri reported dire conditions in the hospital, citing the unavailability of adequate facilities.
- Dr. Yarden Zohar expressed concern over the cramped and poorly ventilated conditions in the relocated departments.
- Soroka Deputy Director Dr. Tzachi Slotzky criticized the insufficient funds provided by the Property Tax Fund, stating it falls short of actual damages.
Community Resilience and Commitment
Sylvan Adams described his donation as a commitment to revitalize the region. He articulated the belief that the response to adversity must be rooted in hope and resilience. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the contributions, acknowledging the importance of restoring Soroka as a cornerstone of medical care in the Negev.
Be’er Sheva Mayor Rubik Danilovich declared the initiative a vital investment in both security and healthcare. As Soroka Medical Center embarks on this rebuilding journey, the focus remains on enhancing its capabilities to serve the community effectively.
