Religious Zionism Leader Offers Reserved Spot to War Hero Abraham Zariv Ahead of Elections

Religious Zionism party chairman and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has proposed a reserved spot on the party list to Rabbi Abraham Zariv, a prominent figure from the recent war, ahead of the upcoming elections. Zariv, who served as a D9 armored bulldozer driver in the reserves during operations in Gaza and southern Lebanon, gained public recognition for his role in extensive counterterrorism activities. He was also honored as a torchbearer at the national Independence Day ceremony on Mount Herzl.

According to informed sources, Zariv was offered a likely second place on the party list, signaling the party's intention to highlight figures associated with the war effort. This move follows the recent inclusion of Dr. Tzvika Mor, a leading voice against partial hostage release deals and father of captive survivor Eitan Mor, who is also expected to secure a high position on the list.

Smotrich's strategy appears focused on assembling a candidate list that strongly represents the ideological camp of Religious Zionism and individuals linked to the wartime experience. The party continues to seek public figures with notable profiles from the conflict period to bolster its electoral appeal.