Bezalel Smotrich

Bezalel Smotrich is a far-right Israeli lawmaker and leader of the Religious Zionist Party, who currently serves as the country's finance minister as well as a minister in the Defense Ministry. In the past, Smotrich also served as transportation minister.

Smotrich is a highly divisive figure in Israeli politics, having been accused of racism, extremism, and homophobia. Smotrich has also gone on record saying that he is a "proud homophobe," staunch support for Israel's West Bank settlements, and rejects both the future existence of a Palestinian state as well as the existence of the Palestinian people.

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 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu give a speech ahead of a cabinet meeting on December 3, 2024

Netanyahu, Israeli leaders praise Trump’s 'all hell to pay' vow, Gazans fear the worst

"President Trump put the emphasis in the right place, on Hamas, and not on the Israeli government," Netanyahu said.

By REUTERS
03/12/2024

The war is not an excuse to neglect the fight against poverty

Security challenges require us to unite as a society, but they must not become an excuse to neglect the state’s basic duty toward its citizens.

By BECKY COHEN-KESHET
01/12/2024

Smotrich backs down as cabinet approves measures to prevent Palestinian Authority collapse

Despite Smotrich’s opposition, the cabinet’s decision underscores the priority placed on maintaining stability and addressing international concerns.

By YAKI ADAMKER , WALLA!
28/11/2024

Global leaders express contrasting opinions on Israel-Lebanon ceasefire

Israeli politicians and global leaders debate Israel-Lebanon ceasefire deal, raising concerns over Hezbollah's future influence.

By EYAL GREEN , SARAH MOSKOWITZ
26/11/2024
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir asks the District Court in Jerusalem to bar the showing

Israeli right-wing politicians express opposition to emerging Israel-Lebanon agreement

Likud members are also criticizing Netanyahu for his intention to sign the agreement, arguing, that the prime minister attempts to appease the public and the UN Security Council.

26/11/2024

Netanyahu rallies support for Lebanon settlement amid right-wing criticism

Netanyahu's prominent representatives on the channel, from Yaakov Bardugo to Erel Segal, are already deeply engaged in delivering pro-agreement messages.

26/11/2024

Hundreds of IDF reservists to receive back money from wrongfully imposed fines

The NII also offered to freeze debts for some reservists, according to the KAN report.

JFNA executive's Gaza comments spark controversy amid rising tensions over US politics

JFNA executive's Gaza remarks cause concern about nonpartisanship and spark debate within the Jewish community.

By RON KAMPEAS/JTA
19/11/2024

Ben-Gvir, Smotrich call on Netanyahu to fire attorney general

Ben-Gvir alleges she ordered police to "find something against" him in weapons probe; AG office calls claims "completely false."

Among many controversies, Netanyahu's coalition weakens by one mandate according to survey

Likud 23 mandates, National Camp 20, Yisrael Beitenu 15, Yesh Atid 14, the Democrats Party 13, Shas 10, Otzma Yehudit 8, United Torah Judaism 7, Hadash-Ta'al 5, Ra'am 5.

By MOSHE COHEN
15/11/2024
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