Israeli politician Bezalel Smotrich faces challenges in annexing West Bank territory

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced new rules aimed at deepening Israel’s control over the West Bank, a move that has drawn international criticism. The regulations effectively allow Israeli Jews to purchase land in the territory, similar to purchasing land in other parts of Israel.

Smotrich, who joined Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government in 2022, had previously expressed his desire to secure a foothold in the West Bank, which he believes is biblically entitled to. He has been a key figure in promoting settlement and occupation policies in the territory.

According to journalist Orly Noy, Smotrich’s ideology is rooted in religious Zionism, which emphasizes the idea that Israel’s victory in the 1967 war was divinely mandated and that future Israeli settlements of Palestinian territory are part of God’s will. This ideology has been influential in shaping the settler movement in Israel.

Smotrich’s rise to prominence began in his early days as a political activist, when he published a strategy document outlining three options for Palestinians in the West Bank: leave, accept Israeli domination, or face annihilation. While some on the right wing dismissed this plan at the time, Noy notes that it should not be underestimated.

Smotrich’s background is closely tied to Israel’s settler movement, which has been active since the 20th century. He was born in the Golan Heights settlement of Haspin in 1980 and attended religious schools overseen by the settler movement before becoming a lawyer.

In recent years, Smotrich has gained international attention for his involvement in promoting settlement and occupation policies in the West Bank. His appointment as finance minister marks a significant shift in Israel’s governance structure, with control over occupied territory now falling under his purview.

The new regulations announced by the Israeli government have sparked widespread criticism from around the world, with many viewing them as a step towards annexation of the Palestinian territory. Smotrich and other far-right figures, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have been accused of fueling tensions in Gaza and promoting an illegal campaign of settlement and occupation.

As part of his coalition government, Smotrich has sought to promote policies that align with his ideological views, which prioritize the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. His appointment as finance minister marks a significant development in this effort.

Source: Al Jazeera