Bezalel Smotrich, Israel’s Finance Minister, has proposed an expansion of Israel’s borders into several neighboring Arab countries, citing Jewish scripture as justification. His comments, made in an Arte documentary, reflect a broader ultra-nationalist agenda within Israeli politics. The documentary also explores the rising influence of Smotrich and fellow far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir amid the ongoing Gaza conflict, highlighting significant divisions in Israeli society and the plight of Palestinians.
Bezalel Smotrich, serving as Israel’s Finance Minister, has articulated a vision for a significantly expanded Jewish state that incorporates not only existing Palestinian territories but also extends into extensive neighboring regions, including the capitals of Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. In an interview featured in the Arte documentary ‘Israel: Extremists in Power’, Smotrich expressed his aspirations to strengthen Israel’s borders into these Arab lands, referencing Jewish texts as justification for such territorial ambitions. He notably stated, “It is written that the future of Jerusalem is to expand to Damascus,” highlighting a belief among certain Israeli ultra-nationalists about the necessity for territorial expansion within the region. The documentary delves into the ideologies and potential policy initiatives of key figures in what is deemed the most far-right government in Israeli history, focusing particularly on Smotrich and his colleague, Itamar Ben-Gvir. This examination comes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has revealed significant divisions within Israeli society and raised concerns over the deteriorating conditions facing Palestinians. The increased political power of Smotrich and Ben-Gvir coincides with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reliance on their support, especially following the resignation of former Defense Minister Benny Gantz from the emergency war cabinet due to strategic disagreements regarding the Gaza situation and negotiations concerning Israeli captives held by Hamas.
The comments made by Bezalel Smotrich are situated within a broader context of Israeli far-right ideology which advocates for expansive territorial claims across the Middle East, based on historical and religious narratives. Such positions are not unique to Smotrich but reflect a persistent strand of nationalist thought within Israeli politics that seeks to redefine the boundaries of the state of Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s alignment with these figures indicates a substantial shift in Israeli governance, which many analysts argue exacerbates tensions both regionally and domestically.
In summary, Bezalel Smotrich’s advocacy for the territorial expansion of Israel underscores a significant and contentious ideology within sections of Israeli politics. His statements call for incorporation of a vast area encompassing multiple Arab nations, which raises critical questions regarding the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations and the preservation of peace in an already volatile region. As political dynamics continue to evolve, the influence of ultra-nationalist perspectives may increasingly shape policy and societal divisions within Israel.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
