(Communicated by the Prime Minister's Media Adviser)

At the weekly Cabinet meeting today (Sunday, 6 July 2014):

1. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the following remarks:

"We are working on several fronts simultaneously. Overnight we were active against many Hamas targets in Gaza and the goal of all of our operations is to restore quiet and security to all of Israel's citizens, especially the residents of the south. Experience proves that at such times we must act responsibly and with equanimity, not hastily. We will do whatever is necessary to restore quiet and security to the south.

Over the weekend we also took determined action against disturbances in Jerusalem and in Arab communities. We are taking a tough line against anyone who breaks the law and against inciters from whatever side. There is no place in the State of Israel for stone throwing at police, throwing firebombs, blocking roads or destroying property, or incitement against the very existence of the State of Israel. This rope cannot be held from both ends. One cannot benefit from National Insurance payments and child allowances on the one hand and, on the other, violate the most basic laws of the State of Israel. I call on the leaders of the Arab public to show responsibility and come out against the wave of disturbances in order to restore quiet. Whoever does not abide by the law – will be arrested and punished severely.

I would like to take the opportunity at this time, on behalf of the government, to send my great appreciation to the police personnel and soldiers for tirelessly dealing with the security of all Israelis."

2. Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Moshe Yaalon and Public Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch briefed ministers on recent security events, including the disturbances and demonstrations that occurred over the weekend in Jerusalem and the north.

3. The Cabinet approved the following Foreign Service appointments:

* Ziv Nevo Kulman – Consul-General in Montreal, and
* Rafael Schutz – Ambassador to Norway and non-resident Ambassador to Iceland

4. The Cabinet decided to declare the 17th of the Hebrew month of Kislev as the annual day of appreciation for those wounded in Israel's wars and in terrorist attacks.

5. The Cabinet approved draft amendments to the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law.

6. The Cabinet approved a significant tax break for cyber companies that move to the national cyber park in Be'er Sheva.

7. The Cabinet received a macro-economic briefing on the state of the economy, including growth forecasts for 2015, ahead of discussions on the 2015 state budget.