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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Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich attends Israel Hayom's security conference in Jerusalem, December

Tel Aviv Stock Exchange moves to Monday to Friday trading

Friday's trading, however, would end at 2 p.m. so that Shabbat is still observed.

(L-R) National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich

Coalition leaders Smotrich, Ben-Gvir clash over Yamam pay raise amid broader budget feud

Wednesday's scuffle continues a public spat between the two over Ben-Gvir's dissatisfaction with his ministry’s expected 2025 budget.

25/12/2024

Director-General of Finance Ministry submits resignation to Smotrich

"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.

Ben-Gvir announces salary hike for police officers without finance ministry approval

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.

Smotrich says he 'didn't know' about Hamas's Nukhba forces before October 7

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.

15/12/2024

'The time is now!': Smotrich calls for seizure of Gaza Strip, action in West Bank

He also pushed back against deals that would result in the release of some hostages, saying they compromised military achievements.

 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
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