Eisenkot Plans to Abolish Minister Role in Defense Ministry; Smotrich Warns of Harm to Settlements

Gadi Eisenkot, chairman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party and former IDF chief of staff, announced at an election event that he intends to abolish the additional minister position within the Defense Ministry, currently held by Bezalel Smotrich. Eisenkot also pledged to reinstate administrative orders and permit the entry of tens of thousands of Palestinian laborers into Israel.

The role, established as part of coalition agreements, grants Smotrich authority over matters concerning settlements in Judea and Samaria, including through the Settlement Directorate within the Defense Ministry. Eisenkot, speaking in Modiin, outlined other proposed measures such as demolishing illegal construction, reintroducing administrative orders, and allowing approximately 60,000 to 70,000 Palestinian workers into Israel.

Smotrich reacted strongly to Eisenkot's statements, warning of significant damage to settlements in Judea and Samaria if Eisenkot and his allies gain power. He stated that Eisenkot's plan would effectively close the Settlement Directorate, return settlers to administration under military rule, and reverse the settlement revolution. Smotrich also linked Eisenkot's remarks to the election campaign, expressing concern that small parties on the right could cause the bloc to lose and bring Eisenkot's faction to power.

Furthermore, Smotrich claimed that a government led by Eisenkot would not only harm settlements but also institutions and bodies associated with the national camp. He asserted that they would evacuate established farms and communities, shut down the Eli preparatory academy and Channel 14, damage the state's Jewish identity, and lead to the establishment of a Palestinian terror state.