Bezalel Smotrich Faces Criticism Over Haredi Integration and Political Choices
In a recent podcast interview with Nadav Perry, Bezalel Smotrich, a prominent figure in the Religious Zionist sector, highlighted the deep divisions within the community, especially between the more conservative Haredi Nationalist subgroup and other Religious Zionists. Smotrich, who grew up in the Beit El settlement, represents a faction that has grown significantly in political influence but also faces internal conflicts over identity and values.
The article discusses the evolving nature of the Religious Zionist community, noting that while it once emphasized values like "love of Israel" and a desire to be accepted, recent years have seen a departure from these principles by leaders like Smotrich and Bezalel Rotman. Smotrich is criticized for abandoning the desire to be loved, while Rotman is said to have forsaken the value of love for Israel. This shift is reflected in political decisions and rhetoric, including Smotrich's firm stance against cooperation with Arab parties and his full alignment with the right-wing Netanyahu bloc.
A significant portion of the critique focuses on Smotrich's handling of the Haredi community's integration into Israeli society, particularly regarding military service and employment. Despite knowing the extent of "hidden unemployment" among Haredi men registered as yeshiva students, Smotrich has supported legislation granting immunity from arrest to those who do not serve in the military, effectively endorsing the status quo. This approach has drawn sharp criticism for perpetuating economic and social challenges within the Haredi sector, which now comprises a growing share of Israel's population and poverty statistics.
The article also contrasts the Religious Zionist sector's sacrifices during recent conflicts with the perceived indifference of the Haredi community, exemplified by the atmosphere in Haredi cities like Bnei Brak during wartime. It argues that the Haredi parties, despite their claims, act in anti-Zionist ways by avoiding responsibility for the state's survival and prosperity.
Looking ahead, the article suggests that Smotrich faces a dilemma about whether to insist on a purely Zionist government coalition or continue his alliance with Haredi parties, which it portrays as a threat to the Zionist project. It questions whether Smotrich's personal religious and cultural affinities influence his political decisions, which seem increasingly disconnected from the broader Religious Zionist community's views.
In summary, the piece portrays Smotrich as a key architect of the current right-wing government who has compromised the Religious Zionist sector's values and future by aligning with anti-Zionist Haredi factions and failing to address critical social issues within his own community.
