A senior US Embassy delegation, led by acting Economic Counselor Wendy Nassmacher, visited Israel’s Upper Galilee in recent days to support efforts to revive the region’s economy as it recovers from years of war.
The delegation focused on American cooperation with Israel to explore opportunities for growth across key sectors, including industry, healthcare, innovation, tourism and agriculture.
Asaf Langleben, head of the Upper Galilee Regional Council, welcomed the delegation and outlined the region’s challenges and opportunities. He emphasized the need for redevelopment through job creation, investment, infrastructure improvements, and expanded international economic partnerships.
The delegation also met with regional leadership, academic and research institutions, major manufacturers, and initiatives supported by American partners.
A key priority highlighted during the delegation’s visit was the need to strengthen medical and emergency services in the North to support the region’s future growth.
World-class medical services key for future growth
One initiative discussed was the development of a world-class medical center in Kiryat Shmona, a joint effort by JNF-USA and Jentezen Franklin Media Ministries to provide critical healthcare infrastructure for the region’s long-term needs.
The delegation highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Israel and reaffirmed the commitment to supporting the recovery and future growth of communities in the North.
JNF-USA has been a critical partner in the Upper Galilee's recovery, having invested approximately $2 billion in community and economic development projects and initiatives in healthcare, tourism, and education over the past 10 years to help Israelis rebuild their future in the North.
Communities along Israel’s northern border have been severely impacted since October 7 and throughout nearly three years of war.
Hundreds of thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes amid sustained rocket fire, while many communities continue to recover from the damage caused by the fighting.
Earlier this year, the government approved a multi-year plan to rehabilitate northern communities along the Lebanon border, including Kiryat Shmona, Shlomi, and Metula, which were among the areas hardest hit by the war.
Keshet Neev contributed to this report.