Bezalel Smotrich

Bezalel Smotrich is Israel's Finance Minister and a prominent figure known for his far-right political views. He's currently newsworthy due to recent controversial statements and actions, particularly regarding settlement construction in the West Bank and comments directed at the German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz. Smotrich criticized Merz's concerns about new settlements, prompting strong condemnation from Israel's ambassador to Germany, who viewed the remarks as historically insensitive, even eroding the memory of the Holocaust. Smotrich's actions are relevant because they reflect the policies of the current Israeli government, including increased settlement activity and a significant budget increase for defense, impacting international relations and the ongoing conflict with Palestinians. He is also associated with a vision of a "Greater Israel" encompassing territories beyond current borders.