Finance Minister Smotrich Claims Israel Funds Arab Population More Than Haredim

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated in an interview that Israel's Arab population receives more state funding than the Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) community, a claim he acknowledged is unpopular to make. Speaking at a conference hosted by the Manufacturers Association of Israel, Smotrich told journalist Amit Segal that his voters support him for ideological reasons, not his economic policies. He described his role as Finance Minister as one that requires making decisions independent of political considerations and pressure groups, which he believes was crucial for managing the country during the ongoing war.

Smotrich outlined his economic philosophy, emphasizing the importance of policy alongside divine providence and the efforts of working citizens. He expressed a desire for a stronger Israel through military buildup and an arms race, viewing it as essential for maintaining international standing. The minister also indicated his willingness to continue as Finance Minister if re-elected, contrasting his approach with that of former Prime Minister Benneth, who he said promised to make Israel like Singapore but failed to deliver.

Addressing concerns about potential emigration if the right-wing bloc wins another election, Smotrich expressed his hope that people would not leave and acknowledged the need to bridge divides. He asserted that he has been a finance minister for everyone, not just for the right, and that his past actions in the Ministry of Defense, such as promoting settlement in Judea and Samaria, were also for the benefit of all Israelis. He also mentioned initiatives to attract Jewish doctors to Israel, while condemning any notion of encouraging draft refusal or capital flight.

Regarding the Haredi community, Smotrich noted the challenges in integrating them into the military and workforce, though he acknowledged positive trends in female employment and progress in integrating men. He attributed a recent setback to the war and a feeling of persecution. He defended state funding for children, comparing it to support for farmers and workers, and highlighted the demographic difference between Haredi families, who average 8 children, and secular families, with 3 children on average, explaining why Haredi families receive more support.

In a separate legal development, the Supreme Court rejected Smotrich's request to appoint Yehuda Eliyahu as the permanent director of the Israel Land Authority before the upcoming elections, citing the Attorney General's position against election-period appointments. Smotrich had urged Prime Minister Netanyahu and Finance Minister Katz not to comply with the court's decision regarding the return of residents to refugee camps in northern Samaria, arguing it would tie the hands of the IDF.