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.
Smotrich 'completely opposed' to Israel arming Hamas opponents in Gaza
"I was not aware of this. I am completely opposed to arming an enemy, no matter which faction they belong to,” Smotrich said at a faction meeting.
Israeli Finance Minister says banks should not obey EU sanctions on settlers
Ben-Gvir calls for Gaza occupation after IDF recovery of bodies of hostages Weinstein, Haggai
'A painful morning': Israeli leaders mourn the three soldiers killed in Jabalya
UK considering sanctions on Ben-Gvir, Smotrich amid Gaza war - NYT
British officials are reportedly waiting to assess whether Israel allows enough humanitarian assistance into Gaza before taking further steps in imposing the sanctions, the NYT said.
Israel approves 22 West Bank settlements amid war with Hamas, pressure for Palestinian state
Legal Affairs correspondent Sarah Ben-Nun explains the context of settlement approval, touching on expansion during the Israel-Hamas War, IDF operations in the West Bank, and more.
Gov't approves establishment of 22 new West Bank settlements
The decision includes plans to renew settlement activity in northern Samaria and develop new communities along the Jordan Valley border.
Smotrich: 'I will not allow signing a partial deal that gives Hamas oxygen and a lifeline'
Foreign Minister Sa'ar said that "if there is a chance to release hostages, it is appropriate to do so."
'We are not afraid of the word occupation,' Smotrich says at Jerusalem Day rally
“We are liberating Gaza – and settling it,” Smotrich said, addressing a crowd gathered for the annual celebration.
Smotrich allegedly pays thousands in misused for social media ad campaign
The Yesh Atid MK alleged that the RZP created a campaign to outline financial benefits to reservists "on behalf" of Finance Minister Smotrich.
Ben-Gvir decries entrance of aid trucks into Gaza: 'Grave mistake that delays our victory'
The prime minister's statement came after Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for Netanyahu to "show leadership" to the public.
PM Netanyahu: Israel will control all parts of the Gaza Strip
"No aid will enter Hamas. Period. Anyone who says otherwise is simply lying," said Smotrich
'Trying to intimidate us': Hebrew U, TAU hit back at Kisch's call for funding cuts over Nakba event
Both the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv University condemned Kisch's call to cut funding to their institutions.
Watch: Netanyahu: 'Edan Alexander released because of IDF pressure, US diplomatic efforts'
Israeli officials expressed their joy at Alexander's return, but noted that returning the remaining 58 hostages from Hamas captivity was of the upmost priority.
The 'O' word: The risks and dangers of an Israeli occupation of Gaza - analysis
“We are finally going to occupy the Gaza Strip. We will stop being afraid of the word occupation,’” Smotrich declared.
