Finance Minister Smotrich Reflects on October 7 Attacks and Controversial Stance on Hostage Returns

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich discussed the aftermath of the October 7 attacks in a podcast interview with Gikonomy, hosted by Ram Sherman and Doron Nir. When asked if he considered resigning after the attacks, Smotrich said he thought about it about two months later but found no personal fault. He described the initial period as working nonstop on war management, the economy, legislation, and regulations, before entering a state of emergency routine that allowed time for reflection.

Smotrich acknowledged the attacks happened "on his watch," calling them the worst massacre against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. He emphasized his long-standing opposition to the Oslo Accords and the disengagement from Gush Katif, noting his past detention by the Shin Bet on suspicion of organizing roadblocks, which he denied. He mentioned he was supposed to receive a commendation from Gali Baharav-Miara for his stance on civil protest.

In a previous podcast, Smotrich claimed credit for ensuring all hostages were returned home, asserting that without his insistence, negotiations with Hamas would still be ongoing. However, he had twice voted against hostage release deals, during which some hostages were killed by Hamas. Survivor Or Levy strongly criticized Smotrich, calling him a disgrace as a minister and citizen. Levy’s partner, Ziv Avod, also condemned Smotrich’s remarks as "simply absurd."