Under the Biden administration, Israel’s far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, was rebuked by the United States for his views, including his opposition to a cease-fire in Gaza. However, his beliefs align with those of the Trump administration, leading to a warm reception in Washington. Smotrich met with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, marking a significant moment after years of being shunned by the U.S. government.
During the meeting, there was a discussion on enhancing collaboration on economic policy, technology, and financial regulation. The meeting highlighted the Trump administration’s acceptance of the far-right positions espoused by Israel, which had previously been condemned internationally. This includes the mass removal of Palestinians from Gaza, a plan supported by Smotrich.
As a religious hard-liner and settler leader, Smotrich supports Israeli occupation of the West Bank and rejects Palestinian sovereignty. He has used his position as finance minister to restrict funds to the Palestinian Authority, creating tensions with the Biden administration.
Smotrich’s visit to Washington has raised concerns among some American Jewish organizations that it could jeopardize peace talks between Israel and Hamas. The meeting has been seen as a comeback for a divisive leader promoting extremism. Nonetheless, discussions between American and Israeli officials are viewed positively by groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, as they benefit both nations.
Overall, Smotrich’s visit highlights the shifting dynamics of US-Israel relations and the challenges of reconciling differing viewpoints on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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