Smotrich Faces Survival Test as Religious Zionism Party Shifts Far-Right

The internal elections of the Religious Zionism party, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, revealed a significant shift away from traditional Religious Zionist values toward a more ultra-Orthodox settler-oriented platform. The party's 130 central committee members determined the candidate list for the 26th Knesset, resulting in a lineup that reflects a hardline, settlement-focused agenda rather than a broad Religious Zionist appeal. Smotrich, along with Minister Orit Strook and MK Tzvi Sukkot, represent this more extreme faction, advocating policies such as annexation of Gaza and voluntary Palestinian migration, which alienate the moderate Religious Zionist electorate.

Notably, established figures from the moderate Religious Zionist camp, including Minister Ofir Sofer and MK Moshe Solomon, withdrew from the race, citing the party's drift toward a more ultra-Orthodox settler identity. Sofer retired from politics, while Solomon is seeking a new political home. This shift has left many traditional Religious Zionists without representation, contributing to Smotrich's party struggling to consistently surpass the electoral threshold despite the increased political engagement following the events of October 7.

Meanwhile, other political actors such as Ofir Winter, who holds far-right views but aims to create a new party uniting religious and secular Israelis, are watching closely. Winter has expressed intentions to enter politics with a party that appeals broadly to Israeli society, contrasting with the sectarian nature of Smotrich's list. The current party composition is seen by insiders as a "wet dream" for Winter, potentially accelerating his political ambitions.

Smotrich, aware of the party's narrow appeal, has requested reserved slots on the list to introduce candidates who might broaden its base. One such candidate is Tzvika Mor, son of a Gaza abduction victim released in 2025, who could help soften the party's ultra-Orthodox image. This upcoming adjustment will be critical for Smotrich’s political survival and the future identity of the Religious Zionism party.