Move comes as local authorities call for nationwide two-hour strike on Monday in solidarity with Arab towns across country that are protesting ongoing budget freeze by Smotrich

General strike set for next week; communities mayors say they won't open coming school year unless government transfers needed millions

Far-right finance minister says he has Netanyahu's backing to halt East Jerusalem funding, alleges money earmarked for Arab authorities goes to organized crime

Finance minister said to instruct drawing from economic development plan to cover stipends demanded by ultra-Orthodox parties; local authorities chief asks Netanyahu to block it

In scathing attack, Modiin Mayor Haim Bibas says coalition 'launched every move on the wrong foot'; criticizes judicial overhaul push, tax redirection plan

Smotrich looking to compel cities to end strike that has shuttered schools and services in dozens of towns; Labor MK threatens to go to court, says move discriminates against Arabs

Cites including Tel Aviv, Holon, Ashdod, Haifa shut schools, halt garbage collection and welfare services; ex-welfare minister: Many areas need aid, but not with 'ugly highjacking'

Coalition plans to create a tax fund that will draw resources from wealthier communities and redistribute them to poor or more far-flung localities

Small number of municipalities, led by Jerusalem, not participating in action called over dispute over funding of education system

Primary and secondary school teachers and education professionals to join local authorities' general strike amid ongoing wage, budget negotiations with Finance Ministry