Smotrich Explains How Control of Treasury Enabled Policy Shifts
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich explained how control over public funds enabled him to advance his policy goals, particularly in Judea and Samaria. He stated that budget control serves as leverage against the military when it delays his initiatives. Smotrich plans to seek both the Finance Ministry and a role in the Defense Ministry in any future government to further his agenda.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Bezalel Smotrich stated control over public funds was key to advancing his policy agenda.
- He explained budget control allows him to exert leverage over the military.
- Smotrich linked policy changes in Judea and Samaria to his budget influence.
- He plans to seek both Finance and Defense Ministry roles in a future government.
- Smotrich believes combining these roles enhances his ability to promote his agenda.
Bezalel Smotrich, chairman of the Religious Zionism party, explained his desire to retain key government positions, highlighting control over public funds as a crucial tool for advancing his political agenda. Speaking at a gathering in Jerusalem, Smotrich detailed how he leveraged his role as Finance Minister to promote his objectives in other areas, particularly in Judea and Samaria. He directly linked policy changes in the region to his influence over budgets and the operations of various systems.
"We made a revolution in Judea and Samaria because we sat on the valve," Smotrich stated, according to quotes published by "Walla!", emphasizing the significance of budget control. He also addressed conflicts with the security establishment, explaining that the budget can serve as leverage when the military delays initiatives he supports. "If the army plays games with you or stops you, you shut off its valve," he said.
As the possibility of forming a new government arises, Smotrich intends to again seek the Finance Ministry portfolio and a ministerial role in the Defense Ministry. He believes the combination of these two positions would empower him to advance his platform through both budgetary influence and operational activities within the security apparatus.
