Smotrich and Religious Zionism Part Ways With Minister Ofir Sofer

At a Rosh Hashanah toast event, the Religious Zionism party, led by Minister Bezalel Smotrich, bid farewell to Minister of Aliyah and Integration Ofir Sofer. Sofer announced he would not be running in the upcoming elections after 12 years in politics.

Smotrich praised Sofer's tenure at the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration, highlighting his quiet, behind-the-scenes work. "Ofir is a partner, a friend, and a brother. For 12 years of very, very deep friendship, of deep partnership, of internal deliberations between two people who have a lot of appreciation for each other and also many different perspectives," Smotrich stated. He further commended Sofer for steering the ministry effectively, stating, "Ofir quietly, as is his way, without fanfare, without campaigns and walking around with pins with ropes and crocodiles, turned this ship around, put the right people in place, sailed it to the right places, to North America, to Europe, and truly did things here that hadn't been done for years."

Sofer, in turn, thanked Smotrich and party members, reflecting on his long period with them. He humorously described the relief he has felt since deciding not to run. "The experience of cortisol levels dropping in recent weeks is a serious celebration," Sofer said with a smile, adding, "This may be the difference between my Day of Judgment and your Day of Judgment. We have gone through a special period."

Sofer concluded his remarks by wishing party members and the public a happy new year. "May we all have a good year, for the people of Israel and for the State of Israel," he said.