Smotrich's Party Claims Credit for West Bank Development Amidst Likud Campaign

While the Likud party campaigns with the slogan "Right or Palestine," the Religious Zionism party, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, is highlighting its achievements in the West Bank during the past term. These accomplishments include the establishment and regulation of 104 settlements and over 160 farms, the approval of the controversial E1 plan for approximately 3,400 housing units between Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim, and the advancement of nearly 60,000 housing units in the West Bank. Smotrich has framed these actions as crucial steps to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The party also points to significant infrastructure investments, including a NIS 7 billion five-year plan for roads in the West Bank and over NIS 1 billion for roads to new settlements. Additionally, NIS 61 million was allocated for improving cellular reception. In land management, over 30,000 dunams were recognized as state land during Smotrich's tenure, alongside the establishment of over 160 farms covering approximately one million dunams. Enforcement against illegal Palestinian construction in Area C has also reportedly increased.

Furthermore, Smotrich, in his capacity as Finance Minister, withheld billions of shekels in funds from the Palestinian Authority for extended periods, citing their actions against Israel internationally. The Religious Zionism party also promotes Jewish settlement initiatives in the Negev and Galilee. The article suggests that while Likud uses the slogan "Right or Palestine" for the election campaign, Smotrich's party has been actively implementing policies on the ground that shape the reality in the West Bank.