Bezalel Smotrich
Outcome of state budget vote uncertain amid coalition crisis over haredi draft
By law, if the state budget is not approved in all three readings by the end of March, when the fiscal year closes, the Knesset will automatically dissolve, and elections will be called.
2026 budget reading puts government at risk, after months of ideological sparring - analysis
'Hero of Kibbutz Alumim': Israel reacts to news of final hostage Ran Gvili's return
Israel approves $1.9B aid package for reserve soldiers
Israel’s debt-to-GDP ratio rose to 68.6% in 2025 due to war, rebuilding expenses - Finance Min.
"The upward trend in the debt-to-GDP ratio stems from the security spending required following the war," Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said.
Not just 'anyone but Bibi': Israel is in election mode, but where is the ideology? - editorial
Israel's political parties should run campaigns focused on offering real ideas and alternatives. That is how political movements grow and how politics regain substance.
As Israel pushes back, Gaza becomes testing ground for emerging post-war governance - analysis
The emergence of a Palestinian technocratic governing committee alongside Trump’s US-backed Board of Peace has triggered sharp Israeli backlash, exposing cabinet rifts and deep unease.
Gadi Eisenkot: Netanyahu ceded Gaza security, IDF must return to fighting
“Two years and a quarter after the start of the war, the military achievements were not translated into a diplomatic outcome,” Eisenkot said.
Government submits 2026 budget to Knesset, Smotrich vows passage despite rifts
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that the government was "determined to pass it [the state budget] on first reading,” during a press conference at the Knesset on Monday.
Smotrich: Thank you Trump for the help, but now Israel needs to control Gaza
Smotrich thanked Trump for his support for Israel and efforts to assist in returning hostages, but said the US president’s Gaza plan should be canceled.
Knesset to pass increased benefits for orphans of IDF soldiers, Katz announces
First, the new law will give recognition to children of soldiers as "orphans" for certain rights as long as the parent died before the age of 30.
'Chutzpan': Netanyahu removes Smotrich, Amsalem from cabinet meeting after shouting match
The clash intensified when Smotrich said, “Who are you anyway? Why are you interfering?" and Amsalem replied, “You’re not speaking politely, don’t call me chutzpan.”
Two protesters held outside Religious Zionist Party offices amid budget, cost-of-living tension
According to the group, the protesters went to confront faction head Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich over rising prices and what they describe as misplaced government spending.
IDF draft equality is minimum condition to restore Israeli solidarity - editorial
The Israel-Hamas War did not only take bodies; it took spirit. It took marriages, jobs, sleep, and the sense that someone competent is steering.
