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Itamar Ben-Gvir publicly challenged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy, cautioning that forming a political alliance with Bezalel Smotrich could alienate moderate voters ahead of elections.
A recent survey indicates that the 'Amcha Yisrael' party may win six seats, potentially drawing votes away from the Religious Zionism Party and affecting coalition dynamics.
An article analyzes the platform and political stance of Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party in anticipation of the 2026 Israeli election.
Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist Party (RZP), stated that his party will not form an alliance with Itamar Ben-Gvir's party in the 2026 elections, emphasizing RZP's intention to run independently.
The political maneuvering of far-right ally Bezalel Smotrich has exposed a significant faultline within Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing coalition.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is calling for a new cabinet vote on a Gaza reconstruction plan, claiming ministers approved it based on misleading information.
The Religious Zionist Party held its primaries to determine its Knesset slate, led by Bezalel Smotrich. Smotrich also stated that the party has done 'a great deal' to make new immigrants (olim) feel at home.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to expand Highway 465 in the West Bank, stating the project would significantly enhance safety, security, and quality of life in the region.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett criticized Bezalel Smotrich, calling him the 'true architect' of a draft evasion law and accusing the government of 'plunder and evasion'.
Senior Likud figures are reportedly discussing whether to include Bezalel Smotrich on the party's slate to secure religious-Zionist support, as his party faces risks of falling below the electoral threshold.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered military forces to completely destroy Hezbollah's infrastructure in southern Lebanon. Netanyahu also visited Israeli troops in the region, affirming that Israel will not withdraw from Lebanon.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated he played a crucial role in the return of hostages following the October 7 events, claiming he drew a 'red line' with Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has sparked international controversy by stating that Israel will maintain its security zone within Lebanon for years to come and intends to change borders. His remarks defy US positions on the matter.
Israel has approved new building plans in Hebron, the first such approval since the 1997 Hebron Agreement, which previously required municipal approval for Jewish community-related restrictions.
SPORAZUM iz Hebrona nije poništen, priopćilo je izraelsko ministarstvo vanjskih poslova, demantirajući krajnje desnog ministra financija Bezalela Smotricha koji je rekao da je "poništio" tri…
Amnesty International has labeled the ethnic cleansing in the West Bank as 'state-sponsored,' while international allies have barred Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich.
Several countries have imposed sanctions on Israel due to settler violence in the occupied West Bank, while a UN report equating settlers with Palestinian terrorists drew condemnation. Amnesty International also accused Israel of ethnic cleansing of Bedouin communities in the West Bank, highlighting growing international concern over Israeli actions.
Israel's Defense Minister Katz warned of an attack on Dahiyeh in response to any aggression on Israel's North, following an Iranian missile attack. Reports also indicate a proposal to attack 20-30 buildings in Dahiyeh for every Iranian missile.
Ireland has imposed travel bans on two far-right Israeli ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, due to their controversial statements regarding Gaza. The Taoiseach confirmed the ban, marking a significant diplomatic move.
The Israeli government has greenlit a NIS 13 billion plan to bolster shelters and infrastructure in the country's North. Prime Minister Netanyahu issued a statement crediting himself and Smotrich for the proposal, despite his absence from much of the approval meeting.
Tzvika Mor, whose son was a hostage in Gaza, has joined Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionism party, marking a political move for the prominent figure.
Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich has ordered the eviction of a Palestinian village, reportedly in retaliation for a potential international arrest warrant against him from the International Criminal Court.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich claims the International Criminal Court (ICC) is seeking an arrest warrant for him and other Israeli officials over alleged war crimes in Gaza. This development follows broader Israeli assessments of potential ICC action against its leadership.
Palestinians in Gaza and across the world marked the 76th anniversary of Nakba Day, commemorating the 1948 mass expulsion and displacement from their homes. The day saw renewed calls for the right of return and international acknowledgment of the historical event.
An editorial criticizes Israeli politician Smotrich for weaponizing the October 7 massacre, calling his comments disgraceful and a betrayal of the victims' memory.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that he promised his son there would be 'more destruction' in Lebanon.
Israeli forces conducted strikes in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah, resulting in casualties and prompting evacuation orders for residents. This comes as Hezbollah reportedly deploys new drone technology, posing a challenge to Israeli defenses.
Israeli politician Bezalel Smotrich reportedly attempted to fire his top spokesperson following critical social media posts.
Pedro Sanchez underlined the need for the European Union to play a more active and leading role on the international stage, not only militarily but also in terms of values.
Israel has intensified its operations in Lebanon, striking various targets and engaging in border clashes, with Defense Minister Israel Katz announcing the military will occupy the southern area up to the Litani River to establish a security zone, a move that has heightened fears in Beirut of a full occupation.
Israeli Finance Minister's Son Wounded In Hezbollah Rocket Attack Via The Cradle At least eight Israeli soldiers were injured by Hezbollah rockets near the border with southern Lebanon on Friday, including the son of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, according to Israeli media. The Lebanese resistance targeted Israeli troop gatherings on Friday. A rocket struck a group of soldiers, wounding eight, five of whom are in serious condition, according to Israel’s military. The Givati...
The military announced the stikes in Dahiyeh minutes after sirens were triggered throughout Israel by Iranian missile launches.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that residents of northern Israel will not be evacuated from their homes following Hezbollah strikes, despite hundreds of thousands having been displaced during the 2024 conflict.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich posted a video on Facebook stating that 'from the river to the sea, there will be only one Jewish state,' in response to Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa.
Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition successfully toppled Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's order to double the import tax rate, with the measure being rejected by a significant margin in the Knesset, leading to celebrations from the opposition.
Smotrich has stated that the Zionist entity intends to occupy all of Gaza if Hamas does not disarm.
Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has threatened a complete occupation of Gaza.
Business owners in Israel are planning protests outside the Knesset following the government's approval of Finance Minister Smotrich's order to raise the import tax exemption.
Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has vowed to displace more Palestinians from the occupied territories. The announcement Tuesday came as part of his 'Colo...
Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has pledged to implement policies to Judaize Arab-majority regions, drawing comparisons to settlement expansion strategies previously applied in the West Bank.
Syria and Israel held US-mediated talks aimed at easing tensions between the two nations. Discussions reportedly addressed de-escalation and Syria's desire to remain out of Israel-Turkey tensions.
Jared Kushner, a Trump envoy, has issued an ultimatum to Hamas, stating that Gaza will not be rebuilt and Israel will receive US backing to 'finish the job' unless the group disarms, with potential progress expected within 30 days.
Israeli settlers resumed a siege on Palestinian homes in the West Bank, leading to Israeli troops intervening to evacuate families and manage the escalating tensions. The incident drew condemnation from the US Ambassador and settler leaders.
Palestinian and Israeli protesters held a sit-in at the Religious Zionist Party's headquarters in Shoham, demonstrating against funds managed by Bezalel Smotrich that are allegedly linked to settler violence.
Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich revealed he considered resigning about two months after the October 7th massacre, but ultimately decided against it, stating he found nothing he did wrong.
Israeli official Smotrich has directed accelerated planning for the Shalem settlement and demolition proceedings against alleged illegal Palestinian construction following a stabbing attack in Samaria.
The IDF has declared a closed military zone from Yad Mordechai junction to Kerem Shalom area in anticipation of a march by the Nahala group to Gaza, joined by politicians Smotrich and Ben-Gvir.
Israel's High Court has canceled the appointment of the Land Authority head, citing a connection to Minister Bezalel Smotrich, after all parties accepted a framework proposed by the justices.
Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Israel should 'return to the whole of Gaza' and 'erase' the Oslo Accords, expressing a maximalist vision for the territory.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the immediate establishment of Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip and advocated for its 'conquest'.
Gadi Eisenkot has filed a petition demanding Bezalel Smotrich remove an AI-generated video, accusing him of attempting to spread hatred, lies, and mislead voters in the current election system.
Israel launched extensive airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, killing at least 18 people, in retaliation for earlier attacks. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces would remain in southern Lebanon indefinitely and vowed a harsh response to Hezbollah's actions.
Israel has announced it is taking control of a holy site in Hebron, effectively nullifying a 1997 agreement that granted the Palestinian Authority administrative powers over the area. This move has been confirmed by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who stated Israel is now assuming full control.
Reports indicate confusion has arisen after an announcement by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich concerning the Hebron Agreement.
Πληθαίνουν και φουντώνουν στο Ισραήλ οι αντιδράσεις απέναντι στη συμφωνία που ανακοίνωσαν Ηνωμένες Πολιτείες και Ιράν, με επικρίσεις να προέρχονται πλέον τόσο από την αντιπολίτευση όσο και από…
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has been denied entry to France due to his promotion of the annexation of the West Bank. This decision has sparked diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
A controversy surrounding the NYC Israel Day Parade, particularly involving Bezalel Smotrich, has exposed deep divisions within American Jewish communities. The incident highlights growing tensions and differing viewpoints among global Jewish populations.
Ireland has banned two Israeli government ministers, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, from entering the country. Dublin considers them radicals responsible for actions in Gaza.
Prominent New York Democrats who participated in the Israel Day parade sought to distance themselves from the attendance of far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich, reflecting growing difficulties for pro-Israel Democrats.
The father of released hostage Eitan Mor has reportedly joined Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party, though Smotrich has not yet confirmed the report.
Haaretz: investigation into Israeli ministers for "crimes in the West Bank". But The Hague denies arrest warrants
A commercial vessel was seized by unknown assailants off the coast of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates and subsequently diverted towards Iranian waters. The incident has raised concerns about maritime security in the Gulf of Oman.
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has responded to comments made by Bezalel Smotrich, who stated that forming a coalition government with Mansour Abbas was worse than the events of October 7.
The Jerusalem Post's must-listen news roundup with Shifra Jacobs—the top stories, clear and concise.
The Knesset plenum decided to provide compensation to employers of reserve soldiers, a move supported by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to alleviate the economic burden and support the conflict's economic rear.
Israel Malachi, who previously served as the Deputy Director General for three and a half years, has been appointed as the new Director General of Israel's Finance Ministry, succeeding Ilan Rom.
The Israeli military has suspended and pulled a battalion from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, a rare punishment for soldier misconduct, following 'revenge' comments made by a soldier and an assault on a CNN crew during their detention.
Smotrich has proposed new education guidelines that would shift some summer vacation days to the month ahead, with the missed learning to be made up during the summer break.
He reportedly received only light wounds and is in stable condition.
A radical Israeli finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, released a video threatening that parts of Beirut would be destroyed like Khan Younis, which was almost completely destroyed by Israeli forces in Gaza.
Smotrich admits that the fiscal deficit will now be more than 3.9% of GDP, the target in the proposed 2026 budget.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has criticized 'Likud's Communist Faction' for nixing a $150 VAT exemption order.
Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said on Monday that the Palestinian resistance group Hamas could soon be given a deadline to surrender its weapons. “We estimate
Bezalel Smotrich stated that 'three and a half' Reform Jews cannot demand an egalitarian Western Wall, sparking controversy.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights stated that the situation in Gaza remains catastrophic, with Palestinians continuing to die from Israeli fire, cold, hunger, and treatable diseases.
The UN missions of 85 countries on Wednesday condemned a series of Israeli measures designed to tighten control over the West Bank, including in areas administered by the Palestinian Authority under the Oslo Accords, in place since the 1990s. It came as Israel's far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich said he would pursue a policy of "encouraging the migration" of Palestinians from the occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has vowed to displace more Palestinians from the occupied territories. The announcement Tuesday came as part of his 'Colo...
A fresh political faction led by Ofer Winter is gaining traction, potentially destabilizing Naftali Bennett and Itamar Ben-Gvir's alliance while challenging Prime Minister Netanyahu's governing bloc.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has outlined a 10-year plan to facilitate the immigration of one million Jews from North America and Europe to Israel. This initiative aims to significantly increase the Jewish population within the country.
In an interview, Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich discussed a secret he kept from his wife regarding Israel's potential war with Iran, explaining his silence over five months despite political pressures.
Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is fighting for political survival ahead of October elections after angering West Bank settlers by voting against punishing ultra-Orthodox Jews who refuse military service.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has allocated NIS 113 million to develop West Bank archaeological and heritage sites, calling it a 'Zionist act of the highest order'.
Otzma Yehudit leader Itamar Ben-Gvir has stated his party will not run with Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party in the upcoming Israeli elections, citing fundamental differences and appealing to distinct voter bases.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Israel has 'no interest' in joining a potential war between the United States and Iran. His comments underscore Israel's desire to avoid direct involvement in a broader regional conflict.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Missions Minister Orit Strock both attended the ceremony at which the equipment was presented to support farms and outposts in the West Bank.
US Representative Ro Khanna was detained by Israeli settlers during a trip to the West Bank, where he witnessed the demolition of a Palestinian village. Separately, four Israeli settlers were arrested after attacking a CNN team in the same region.
Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich has declared a 'revolution' in West Bank settlement expansion, as Israel approves 13 new outposts amidst a significant increase in settler violence. This move signals an aggressive push for further settlement growth.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich canceled his planned visit to Kibbutz Be'eri after facing strong opposition from the families of hostages and residents. The cancellation followed public criticism, including a former hostage's father reacting strongly to Smotrich's claims.
Israel has expropriated 46.5 hectares in the West Bank, with Minister Smotrich justifying the expansion of the Givat HaRoeh settlement as a security measure.
A new peace agreement between the United States and Iran has led to the lifting of the blockade on Iranian ports and a reduction in the threat level in the Strait of Hormuz. The deal has drawn criticism from Israel, which feels betrayed, while the business sector and some international observers welcome the de-escalation.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry has denied an announcement by Smotrich regarding the annulment of the 1997 Hebron Agreement, which governs planning and construction in Hebron.
Bezalel Smotrich has reportedly overturned the Hebron agreement, prompting a warning from Mahmoud Abbas.
Members of the Jewish diaspora are asserting their rejection of Israel's authority over their identity, particularly in light of Bezalel Smotrich's appearance at an Israel Day parade.
The UK, Canada, France, Norway, and Australia have announced coordinated sanctions targeting Israeli settlers and networks involved in violence in the West Bank. France has also banned two Israeli ministers from entering the country as part of this push.
Ireland has announced a ban on Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir from entering the country. This decision reflects a significant diplomatic stance by Ireland regarding the actions of the Israeli officials.
Far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans for the construction of 2,162 new homes in the occupied West Bank, stating that the new settlements would 'strengthen our hold on the land'.
Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich is in Washington for an intensive series of meetings with key Latin American figures, aiming to expand the Isaac Accords.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will intensify its attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon, vowing to crush the group. This declaration came as Netanyahu was admitted to a Jerusalem hospital for a dental procedure.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor is seeking an arrest warrant against him. The warrant is reportedly related to allegations of forced displacement and genocidal remarks.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor is reportedly seeking or has issued arrest warrants for several Israeli officials, including Ben-Gvir and Smotrich.
Bezalel Smotrich, a figure in Israel's current cabinet, is frequently criticized by the international community for his role as a minister of settler colonialism.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich was filmed dancing with hundreds of settlers in the courtyard of the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron while celebrating the "Lag BaOmer" holiday.
Israeli politician Bezalel Smotrich declared that forming a government with the Arab party led by Mansour Abbas would be a greater danger than the October 7 massacre, viewing such a political partnership as intentionally harmful.
John Phelan, the US Navy Secretary, has been ousted from his position, with reports citing a clash with Pentagon leadership and the ongoing naval blockade of Iran as contributing factors. Hung Cao has been named as the interim US Navy Secretary following Phelan's departure.
An Israeli minister's strong criticism of the German Chancellor was publicly condemned by Israel's ambassador to Germany. The ambassador denounced the minister's "tirade" and called for an apology.
Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the effective annexation of southern Lebanon, advocating for a 'new border' and occupation. This is reinforced by Defense Minister Israel Katz, who suggested Israeli troops might remain in parts of Lebanon even after fighting subsides, aiming to control a security zone where displaced Lebanese residents will not be allowed to return until northern Israel is safe.
Israeli leaders Netanyahu and Smotrich have decided to set aside the haredi draft law and approve tens of billions of shekels in defense funding to support the ongoing war effort.
The forced exodus from Dahieh begins to the sound of car horns, on the orders of the IDF and with the threat of Israeli Minister Smotrich. The suburb south of the Lebanese capital is the realm of the Shiite militia.
Israel issues forced evacuation order for entire Dahiyeh area of Lebanon's capital, home to hundreds of thousands.
Smotrich is a light-year away from the Israeli consensus. Why does a man who represents but a marginal, detached, and minuscule part of Israeli society sit on its national chest?
Bezalel Smotrich is reportedly weakening as the struggle for leadership of Israel's religious right intensifies.
Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Hamas may soon be given an ultimatum to disarm and demilitarize Gaza, implying an Israeli occupation if the demand is not met.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said Monday that the Palestinian group Hamas could soon face a deadline to surrender its weapons. 'We estimate that in the coming days, H...
An Israeli minister stated that the Israeli army would occupy all of Gaza if Hamas does not disarm, with foreign troops pulling out quickly and Israeli actions coordinated with the US.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated his Religious Zionist Party's desire to 'cancel the damned Oslo Accords'.