Prominent Critic of Smotrich Seeks Knesset Spot, Denied by Party

Shvut Ra'anan, a prominent activist and co-founder of the Forum of Reserve Soldiers' Wives, who has publicly accused Religious Zionism party leader Bezalel Smotrich of betraying the sector's values and even threatening her, recently sought a secured spot on his Knesset list. During negotiations, Ra'anan reportedly conveyed a message expressing her readiness to "forgive everything that has happened."

However, her attempt to join the Religious Zionism party failed, leaving her outside the Knesset list. The party responded indirectly, stating, "Many approached the Religious Zionism party requesting to be placed on the Knesset list. After examination, the most worthy and most loyal candidates to the national camp were chosen." The emphasis on "loyal" was seen as a pointed jab at Ra'anan.

Ra'anan's overtures to Smotrich stand in stark contrast to her sustained public criticism. For months, she accused Smotrich of deviating from the right path and betraying the values of the Religious Zionist community. A central point of contention was the draft law, with Ra'anan advocating for an end to the ultra-Orthodox exemption from military service. She accused Smotrich of prioritizing political alliances with Haredi parties over soldiers' needs and transforming his party into a narrow, sectoral body.

Despite her criticism, Ra'anan sought a political home aligned with her right-wing views. She initially explored a political move with Yoaz Hendel's Miluimnikim party and later considered forming a "broad Zionist government." Ultimately, her search led her back to Smotrich's party, but her efforts to reconcile and secure a political position were unsuccessful.