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.
Friday's trading, however, would end at 2 p.m. so that Shabbat is still observed.
Wednesday's scuffle continues a public spat between the two over Ben-Gvir's dissatisfaction with his ministry’s expected 2025 budget.
"I have worked with the Finance Minister hand in hand and I am very sorry to be forced to end my role now," Heisler said.
The dispute continued a public spat between Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich over, among other issues, Ben-Gvir’s dissatisfaction with his ministry’s expected 2025 budget.
Finance Minister Smotrich faced backlash after admitting he hadn't heard of Hamas's elite Nukhba force before October 7, despite serving in Israel's Defense Ministry.
He also pushed back against deals that would result in the release of some hostages, saying they compromised military achievements.
"President Trump put the emphasis in the right place, on Hamas, and not on the Israeli government," Netanyahu said.
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.
Despite Smotrich’s opposition, the cabinet’s decision underscores the priority placed on maintaining stability and addressing international concerns.
Israeli politicians and global leaders debate Israel-Lebanon ceasefire deal, raising concerns over Hezbollah's future influence.