Otzma Yehudit Shelves Harsh Campaign Against Smotrich Amid Unity Talks

Otzma Yehudit prepared an aggressive campaign targeting Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionism party and Israel's Finance Minister, portraying him as "the most arrogant". The campaign, featuring posters in Religious Zionism's colors and logo, was fully produced but ultimately shelved. This move comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu explores the possibility of uniting Otzma Yehudit and Religious Zionism ahead of upcoming elections, despite both parties currently rejecting the idea.

The political tension between the two right-wing coalition partners has intensified recently, highlighted by differing votes on key legislation. For example, Religious Zionism members abstained from voting on a death penalty bill for terrorists proposed by Otzma Yehudit's Itamar Ben-Gvir, while Otzma Yehudit supported a housing bill initiated by ultra-Orthodox parties. Meanwhile, Smotrich has sought to strengthen his party by recruiting prominent figures, including Rabbi Avraham Zaraviv, who declined to join to remain non-partisan.

Otzma Yehudit stated it respects Smotrich and is pleased that Religious Zionism consistently passes the electoral threshold without needing Otzma Yehudit's support. Religious Zionism did not respond to the campaign report. The shelved campaign reflects growing right-wing rivalries as parties compete for votes, leaving Netanyahu's efforts to bridge gaps and unify the factions uncertain.