Smotrich Reveals Rift with Ultra-Orthodox Community Amid War Tensions

Religious Zionist Minister Bezalel Smotrich opened up in a candid interview about his growing estrangement from the ultra-Orthodox community during the ongoing war. He rejected the ultra-Orthodox claim to Torah study superiority, asserting confidently that he possesses "more Torah and more connection to the land" than they do. Smotrich emphasized that the Religious Zionist Torah scholarship matches that of the ultra-Orthodox yeshivas, citing the depth and brilliance found at institutions like Mercaz HaRav.

Smotrich also expressed sharp personal criticism of fellow minister Yitzhak Goldknopf, calling him "impudent," and revealed that despite his Hasidic family background, he has been unable to attend a tish (Hasidic gathering) for three years due to deep anger and alienation. He described a breaking point early in the war when his son Benaya was wounded in combat. While his family lived in constant anxiety, his wife’s visit to Bnei Brak shocked her by the normalcy and celebrations she witnessed there, contrasting with the national emergency.

He further criticized Shas leader Aryeh Deri and the ultra-Orthodox leadership for their lack of solidarity, questioning why they have not organized a "million prayer" for the wounded and why their rabbis do not visit injured soldiers and mourning families daily. Smotrich stressed that unlike the ultra-Orthodox, he does not need to prove his loyalty to the nation after burying his son in war and leading a community that serves on the front lines.