Finance Minister Smotrich Responds to Rabbi Lando's Criticism of Religious Zionists

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich addressed the sharp criticism made by Degel HaTorah leader Rabbi Dov Lando against the Religious Zionist community. Rabbi Lando had condemned some members of the Religious Zionist sector, saying, "There are wicked people, and some wear the knitted kippah. They go to the army and kill people, is that permitted? It is outright murder."

Speaking at a Hesder yeshiva in Tefahot, Smotrich acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, "It is a big dilemma. On one hand, we cannot remain silent, and on the other hand, we cannot speak because we are careful with the coals of the sages." He emphasized the need for restraint and quoted a verse traditionally recited on the eve of Tisha B'Av: "Who is the man who desires life, loves days to see good? Guard your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit."