Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich has proposed an expansive vision for a Jewish State, aiming to extend its borders into parts of Egypt, Syria, and beyond. His comments, featured in a documentary about extremist elements in Israel’s government, reflect a worrying shift in public discourse amidst heightened tensions following recent violent conflicts in the region.
In a documentary aired this month titled “Israel: Extremists in Power,” Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich articulated a controversial vision for a Jewish State that not only includes all Palestinian territories up to the Jordan River but also seeks to extend Israel’s borders into parts of Egypt and Syria, with aspirations reaching as far as Iraq and Saudi Arabia. This documentary, produced by the Franco-German outlet Arte Reportage, features perspectives from two noted extremist ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar ben-Gvir. Minister Smotrich boldly stated, “It is written that the future of Jerusalem is to expand to Damascus,” illustrating a desire for a territorial enlargement that encompasses regions of Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. His suggestion that the borders of the Jewish state should go beyond the Jordan River reflects a deeply ingrained view among certain sectors of the Israeli population, as he mused, “Absolutely, but slowly… Our esteemed religious elders used to say that the future of Jerusalem would extend as far as Damascus.” The commentary provided in the documentary reveals a troubling acceptance of such expansionist ideologies within contemporary Israeli discourse, especially considering the current government is recognized as the most right-wing in Israeli history. Following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2022, tensions in the region have escalated significantly, resulting in widespread international criticism due to Israel’s military responses. Videos have emerged depicting Israeli soldiers raising their flag in areas of both Gaza and southern Lebanon, exacerbating fears of a broader regional conflict.
The documentary in question comes against a backdrop of increasing instability in the Middle East, primarily due to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which has seen renewed intensity after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2022. The current Israeli government, characterized by its right-wing coalition, has attracted scrutiny for its hardline stance and actions that are perceived as aggressive both towards Palestinians and neighboring states. The call for expansion beyond traditional borders raises concerns not only within Israel but also among its regional neighbors and the international community, as historical claims to territory are reignited.
The statements made by Minister Bezalel Smotrich in the documentary highlight a significant and potentially dangerous ideological shift within parts of the Israeli government. His ambition to expand the Jewish State’s borders into regions claimed by neighboring countries poses a challenge to stability in the region and could incite further conflict. As tensions continue to rise, particularly following Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon, the ideas presented by these government officials may contribute to an alarming escalation of the conflict.
Original Source: egyptianstreets.com
