Religious Zionist Rabbis Back Smotrich Amid Government Funding Concerns
Translated & summarized from N12 by baba
Rabbis and heads of government-funded educational institutions are publicly endorsing Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party, prompting a petition against alleged misuse of public funds for political campaigning. The party and involved institutions have not fully commented, while the Ministry of Education stated it will investigate any violations of its regulations.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbis and heads of government-funded institutions publicly support Bezalel Smotrich's Religious Zionist Party.
- A petition has been filed against alleged misuse of public funds for the party's election campaign.
- Educational organizations supporting the party receive millions of shekels in government funding.
- Critics cite "improper influence" and the use of public money for political campaigning.
- The Ministry of Education stated it will investigate any violations of its regulations.
The Religious Zionist Party's election campaign has seen public endorsements from numerous rabbis and heads of educational institutions, many of whom lead organizations that receive millions in government funding. One yeshiva head urged his students to join the party, calling it a matter of "national life-saving imperative."
The party's campaign includes large public events and significant support from rabbis, including leaders of government-funded educational bodies like Hesder Yeshivas. The party's director-general, Yehuda Vald, instructed activists to "paint the entire country" in support of the party. This week, a petition was filed against the activities of some yeshivas supporting Bezalel Smotrich, which have reportedly operated phone banks and provided transportation for party rallies.
Itamar Kremer, director of the State Education Watch, stated that there is a "legal problem" with the "improper influence" and the alleged use of public and government funds to sway votes for a specific party. Elchanan Wolf, secretary-general of the Ariel Youth Movement, was recorded saying that Smotrich secured 50 million shekels to prevent youth movements from collapsing, and urged people to vote for him. Wolf later refused to provide clear answers when questioned about using movement funds for the party.
The support is explicitly for Smotrich's party, not just for a right-wing government. Rabbi Ronen Tamir, head of Binate Midrasha, stated he is not voting for the Noam party despite ideological support, because the current discussion is between the Religious Zionist Party and Noam.
Government funding for these educational organizations totals millions of shekels. Kremer explained that rabbis and educational leaders know they will receive funding if they align with Smotrich, warning against such a situation and emphasizing the importance of trust between educators, parents, and the government.
The Religious Zionist Party did not respond to requests for comment. Many rabbis and directors declined interviews, with some claiming their activities were done in their "free time." The Ministry of Education stated that its regulations regarding political activity and election propaganda in educational institutions are clear and will be examined and addressed if any violations are found.
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