Ben-Gvir Accuses Smotrich of Arrogance, Citing Ethnic and Religious Backgrounds
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir publicly accused Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of arrogance and haughtiness, citing Smotrich's exclusion of Ben-Gvir from a rabbis' conference as a key incident. Ben-Gvir suggested their differing ethnic and religious backgrounds, including his identity as Mizrahi and ba'al teshuva, contribute to Smotrich's perceived condescension. The dispute highlights growing tensions within the Religious Zionism party and among right-wing factions.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir accused Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of arrogance.
- Ben-Gvir cited Smotrich's exclusion of him from a rabbis' conference as a trigger for the dispute.
- Ben-Gvir suggested Smotrich's actions stem from ethnic and religious differences.
- Ben-Gvir identified himself as Mizrahi and ba'al teshuva in relation to Smotrich's alleged condescension.
- The dispute signals rising tensions within right-wing political factions.
Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir has openly criticized Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, accusing him of arrogance and haughtiness in their relationship. Ben-Gvir stated that the tension stems from Smotrich's actions, including convening a rabbis' conference and explicitly excluding Ben-Gvir.
According to Ben-Gvir, when asked why he didn't invite Ben-Gvir to the conference, Smotrich responded that Ben-Gvir "doesn't have rabbis." Ben-Gvir challenged this, naming prominent rabbis like Shmuel Eliyahu and Dov Lior, and questioning Smotrich's audacity.
Ben-Gvir described this as a recurring problematic behavior, suggesting that instead of working together and dividing responsibilities, Smotrich acts superior. He proposed a division where Smotrich would focus on achievements in Judea and Samaria, while Ben-Gvir would handle internal security.
When directly asked if Smotrich's perceived arrogance stems from ethnic considerations, Ben-Gvir responded affirmatively, stating, "Mizrahi, ba'al teshuva... there are all sorts of things." He implied that their differences in background contribute to the perceived condescension.
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