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.
Global sanctions against Israel ministers show dangerous hypocrisy - editorial
As US Secretary of State Marco Rubio put it, the sanctions “do nothing to promote a ceasefire in Gaza, bring the hostages home, or end the war.”
End of cooperation with Israeli banks may harm Palestinian economy, Palestinians say
'Allies don't sanction allies': Finance Minister Smotrich unfazed by UK sanctions - interview
Knesset dispersal vote may be postponed, At least five killed in Hamas attack on GHF bus
Smotrich orders cancellation of waiver on cooperation with Palestinian banks
This move could effect the collapse of the PA.
'A profound moral failure': Israeli officials react to British sanctions on Ben-Gvir, Smotrich
"Britain has already tried once to prevent us from settling the cradle of our homeland, and we will not allow it to do so again," Smotrich stated.
UK joins others in sanctioning Ben-Gvir, Smotrich over 'monstrous' Gaza comments
Britain will join Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and others over quotes that British Foreign Secretary David Lammy described as “monstrous.”
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
The Religious Zionist Party chair urged banks not to obey EU sanctions in the name of "a national moral injustice."
Ben-Gvir calls for Gaza occupation after IDF recovery of bodies of hostages Weinstein, Haggai
Ben-Gvir and other politicians call for the return of hostages using any force necessary, as the people of Israel send hugs and condolences with broken hearts to the families of Judith and Gadi.
'A painful morning': Israeli leaders mourn the three soldiers killed in Jabalya
The three soldiers were killed in Jabalya when the Hummer vehicle they were riding on was damaged after it hit an explosive device.
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."
