Billionaire Bill Ackman Criticizes Israeli Ministers, Citing Reputational Damage
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Billionaire investor Bill Ackman has criticized Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, asserting their actions have severely damaged Israel's global image. Ackman suggested that excluding them from a future government would signal a new chapter for Israel, potentially improving its international standing and relations. He emphasized this view comes from his understanding of Israel's perception in the U.S., while refraining from commenting on internal Israeli politics.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Billionaire Bill Ackman stated Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich caused Israel "enormous reputational damage."
- Ackman believes a government without the two ministers would signal Israel is "turning a new page."
- He suggested this could improve Israel's foreign relations and Abraham Accords expansion.
- Ackman clarified he is not commenting on who should be Israel's prime minister.
- The investor has been a public supporter of Israel since the October 7th attacks.
American billionaire investor Bill Ackman has sharply criticized Israel's Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir and Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich, stating they have caused "enormous reputational damage" to Israel. In a post on social media platform X, Ackman argued that the statements and actions of Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are being portrayed in global media as representative of all Israelis.
Ackman clarified that he is not weighing in on who should be prime minister, as that is a decision for Israeli citizens. However, he shared his perspective as someone familiar with how Israel is perceived in the United States. He believes that forming a government without Ben-Gvir and Smotrich would send a message to the world that Israel is "turning a new page."
According to Ackman, such a government could lead to improved foreign relations for Israel, helping to rebuild lost credibility. He also suggested it could increase the chances of expanding the Abraham Accords and foster better relationships with both Democrats and Republicans, as well as the broader American public.
Since the October 7th attacks, Ackman, a prominent Wall Street investor, has been a vocal supporter of Israel and has spoken out against antisemitism, particularly on U.S. university campuses. His current criticism of the two ministers is notable given his consistent public support for Israel.
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