Finance Minister Smotrich Criticizes Prosecution as Selective After Charges Dropped Against Right-Wing Activist

Finance Minister and Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich sharply criticized the initial indictment against right-wing activist Reut Ben Haim, calling it unjustified and an example of selective law enforcement by the judicial system. He welcomed the recent decision to drop the charges, describing the indictment as "absurd" and "hypocritical." Smotrich directly targeted Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara, accusing her of inconsistent handling of cases by supporting prosecutions against Ben Haim while backing left-wing protesters who blocked roads and lit bonfires on Kaplan Street.

Smotrich stated, "The same Attorney General who supported road blockers and bonfire starters on Kaplan sought to prosecute Reut Ben Haim." He concluded his remarks with a pointed comment on the justice system, saying, "The decision to cancel the indictment is appropriate and just. Even a broken clock is right twice a day." The decision to drop the charges against Ben Haim has sparked political reactions, with right-wing figures praising it as evidence of biased enforcement. The judicial system has yet to respond to Smotrich's criticism.