​(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser)
 
At the weekly Cabinet meeting, today (Monday, 13 June 2016):
 
1. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the following remarks:
 
"We are all shocked at the horrific massacre in Orlando. On behalf of the government and people of Israel, I would like to again express our condolences to the American people and the families at this especially difficult hour. This terror threatens the entire world and it is necessary – first of all – that the enlightened countries urgently unite to fight it. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the American people.
 
Today the Cabinet will be briefed on the recommendations of the Shtrum committee on the establishment of new banks. Competition in the banking sector will ease the credit situation for small and medium business. And separation between the major banks and credit card companies is the start of a comprehensive reform that will be good for all Israelis."
 
 
2. Prime Minister Netanyahu updated ministers on his visit to Russia last week to mark 25 years since the resumption of diplomatic relations between the State of Israel and the Russian Federation, including his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and added that there are understandings between the two countries on a range of issues.
 
3. The Cabinet discussed, and decided to update, the list of national priority areas vis-à-vis construction and housing benefits.
 
4. The Cabinet discussed streamlining the rental market for housing and encouraging long-term rentals.

5. The Cabinet was briefed on the recommendations of the committee on increasing competition in banking and financial services headed by David Shtrum. The briefing was delivered by Finance Minister Kahlon, Finance Ministry Director General Shai Babad, Bank of Israel Governor Dr. Karnit Flug, Bank of Israel Supervisor of Banks Dr. Hedva Ber and David Shtrum.

6. The Cabinet discussed the construction of permanent quarters for the Bar-Ilan University Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee in Safed.