In a notable turnaround, far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has received a warm reception in Washington after previously facing condemnation under the Biden administration for his controversial stances.
Far-Right Israeli Minister Embraces Warm Welcome in Washington Under Trump Administration
Far-Right Israeli Minister Embraces Warm Welcome in Washington Under Trump Administration
Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli finance minister, marks a significant shift in U.S.-Israel relations as he meets with Treasury Secretary after years of alienation.
March 5, 2025, saw Smotrich engaging in discussions with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in what he described as an "important" meeting following a four-year hiatus of ministerial-level interactions between the U.S. Treasury and the Israeli government. This meeting signifies a notable shift in U.S. foreign policy towards Israel under the Trump administration, as officials now embrace some of Smotrich's views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Smotrich took to social media to share a photo of the handshake with Bessent, emphasizing the two leaders' agreement to enhance collaboration that encompasses economic policy, technology, and financial regulation. He remarked, “This is a critical time to shape a new strategic economic future for both countries, reinforcing American global leadership and Israel’s role as a key economic partner.”
This event highlights a stark contrast to the previous approach of the Biden administration, which had openly criticized Smotrich for his opposition to a cease-fire in Gaza and for advocating policies favoring settlers in the West Bank. The renewed relationship indicates a shift towards a more aligned stance on key issues between the two nations, potentially reshaping future dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue.
Smotrich took to social media to share a photo of the handshake with Bessent, emphasizing the two leaders' agreement to enhance collaboration that encompasses economic policy, technology, and financial regulation. He remarked, “This is a critical time to shape a new strategic economic future for both countries, reinforcing American global leadership and Israel’s role as a key economic partner.”
This event highlights a stark contrast to the previous approach of the Biden administration, which had openly criticized Smotrich for his opposition to a cease-fire in Gaza and for advocating policies favoring settlers in the West Bank. The renewed relationship indicates a shift towards a more aligned stance on key issues between the two nations, potentially reshaping future dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian dialogue.
