Finance Minister Smotrich Rules Out Israeli Attack on Iran, Emphasizes Economic Pressure

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated in a radio interview on Tuesday that Israel currently has no intention to attack Iran. He explained that the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran suits Israel's interests and that economic pressure and sanctions are the appropriate means to bring down the Iranian regime. Smotrich emphasized that Israel is not interested in joining the US in military confrontation at this time but remains prepared for any Iranian aggression.

Smotrich also responded to harsh criticism from Lithuanian Jewish leader Rabbi Dov Lando against the Religious Zionist community, asserting that such remarks do not affect them. He praised the community’s dedication to Torah study and commitment to Israel, suggesting the criticism reflects poorly on its source.

Regarding disputes with ultra-Orthodox parties over military conscription laws, Smotrich expressed a desire for their cooperation but criticized recent arrests as counterproductive. He supported legislation aimed at preventing such arrests despite political costs, arguing that confrontations only alienate the ultra-Orthodox from military service.

Warning of political complacency on the right, Smotrich compared the current situation to the calm before the 1992 elections, cautioning against a left-wing government allied with Arab parties and the Oslo framework. He described opposition candidate Gadi Eizenkot as a "full leftist" who would withdraw from territories won at great cost, posing an existential threat to Israel and its Jewish identity.