Otzma Yehudit Shelves Campaign Attacking Religious Zionism Leader Smotrich Amid Political Tensions

Otzma Yehudit prepared a campaign targeting Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionism party, labeling him as "the most arrogant." The posters, designed in the Religious Zionism party's colors and logo, bore the headline "No fine print. Who is the most arrogant? Yes, Smotrich." However, the campaign was shelved before launch. The decision aimed to avoid an overt public conflict within the right-wing camp and out of concern that a harsh attack on Smotrich might cause Religious Zionism to fall below the electoral threshold, risking the loss of crucial right-wing votes and harming the bloc as a whole.

Otzma Yehudit responded to the report by stating they respect Minister Smotrich and are pleased that Religious Zionism consistently passes the electoral threshold without needing Otzma Yehudit's support. The Religious Zionism party did not comment. This development occurs amid ongoing tensions between Otzma Yehudit and Religious Zionism, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has explored the possibility of a renewed joint run between the two parties ahead of the 26th Knesset elections. Both sides currently reject this idea outright.