Finance Minister Smotrich Invites Rabbi Zarbiv to Join Religious Zionist List in Second Spot
How 7 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
First reported by Kikar HaShabbat · Jul 3, 2026
What happened
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has invited Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, a war hero and rabbinical judge, to join the Religious Zionism party list in a top position ahead of upcoming elections. This move aligns with Smotrich's strategy to include prominent figures from the recent war, alongside other notable additions like Dr. Tzvika Mor. Smotrich continues to push his security policies amid political controversy.
- 01Bezalel Smotrich offers Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv the second spot on the Religious Zionism party list.
- 02Rabbi Zarbiv gained fame as a D9 driver demolishing terror sites during the recent war.
- 03The move follows adding Dr. Tzvika Mor, a vocal opponent of partial hostage deals, to the list.
- 04Smotrich faces criticism from bereaved families over his stance on hostage release negotiations.
- 05Smotrich announced plans to establish three new settlements near northern Gaza, pending approval.
- 06Rabbi Zarbiv's rabbinical role survived previous left-wing complaints after his Independence Day honor.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
Full coverage · 7 outlets
The same event, reported separately by each newsroom. Open a few to compare what each emphasizes — and what they leave out.
