State of the World from NPR Israel's Powerful Finance Minister and the Future of the Gaza Strip
Mar 24, 2025
Tensions are rising as Israel considers a major ground invasion of Gaza, aiming for military control. The influential Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, is vocal about resettling the territory and threatens political upheaval if the war concludes. We delve into Smotrich's political ascent, navigating through the currents of nationalism and extremism in Israeli politics. His views, rooted in religious convictions, present a complex layer to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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Smotrich's Past
- Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's finance minister, was once investigated for a suspected plot involving fuel-filled jerry cans.
- Although interrogated, Smotrich remained silent, revealing no information and ultimately being released without charge.
Smotrich's Ideology
- Smotrich's political motivations are rooted in religious Zionism, advocating for Israel's governance based on Jewish scripture.
- He envisions the West Bank as part of Israel, offering Palestinians limited choices: emigration, subjugation, or conflict.
Smotrich's Rise to Power
- Netanyahu's corruption trial limited his coalition options, ultimately empowering Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party.
- Smotrich gained significant influence, assuming control over civilian settler affairs in occupied territories, edging toward annexation.