In Riklin's Sukkah: Minister Bezalel Smotrich in a festive interview | Watch

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich was interviewed by Shimon Riklin in his sukkah for the Sukkot holiday. The comprehensive interview dealt with the settlement revolution in Judea and Samaria, the struggle over the Israel Land Authority, the decision in Gaza, the hostage issue, and the completion of the judicial reform. Smotrich presented firm positions on annexation and denying hope to the enemy.

Finance Minister and Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich was interviewed by Shimon Riklin in his sukkah for the Sukkot holiday. The comprehensive and open interview dealt with a series of burning issues on the public and political agenda. Smotrich emphasized the importance of settlement in Judea and Samaria as a 'security belt' for the State of Israel, and called on the public to come and visit the new communities. He sharply attacked the current structure of the Israel Land Authority and the Planning Administration, which he described as 'post-Zionist', and expressed support for figures like Yehuda Eliyahu. Regarding Gaza, he presented a hawkish position: annexation up to the 'yellow line' and denying hope to the enemy as a way to encourage emigration. Smotrich shared difficult feelings about the heavy responsibility in war, including life-and-death decisions. Ahead of the next elections, he expressed optimism about completing the judicial reform and balancing democracy. The interview was broadcast on Channel 14, identified with the political right.