Smotrich: This is why we haven't left the government (yet)

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionism party, addressed his faction today, explaining why he has not resigned from the government despite Israel’s resumption of humanitarian aid to Gaza, which he previously vowed would not reach Hamas. “We are advancing a good strategic move, which I won’t elaborate on now,” Smotrich said, according to Channel 12. “In a short time, we’ll know if it succeeds and where we’re headed.”

On Saturday, Israel approved the delivery of aid to Gaza, including airdrops by Israeli and foreign planes, without consulting Smotrich or National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. This move contradicted Smotrich’s earlier pledge at a conference three months ago that “not a single grain of aid” would reach Hamas. He had stated, “Delivering logistical aid that reaches Hamas is a step I won’t be part of. Period!” The Religious Zionism party and its coalition partner, Otzma Yehudit, have faced criticism for remaining in the government despite these developments.

Ben Gvir, who resigned over the hostage deal and aid delivery, criticized the decision, calling it a “surrender to Hamas’s false campaign” that endangers IDF soldiers and delays victory. He noted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had promised on Friday to explore “alternative ways” to free hostages, but instead increased aid to Gaza.

Other Religious Zionism members, including Minister Orit Strock and party CEO Yehuda Wald, have remained silent, despite their usual activity on social media. The decision to resume aid has sparked accusations that Netanyahu is exploiting the coalition’s weakened state to push through controversial measures.