In December 2022, Benjamin Netanyahu returned as the Prime Minister of Israel. To form his coalition, he relies on religious and far-right parties, including emblematic figures such as Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who wield significant influence on Israeli politics.
Fanatics and Netanyahu's Coalition
December 2022 marks the return of Benjamin Netanyahu as Israel's Prime Minister. In forming his coalition, he relies on religious and far-right parties. Among the notable figures: Itamar Ben-Gvir, Minister of National Security and leader of the 'Jewish Power' party, and Bezalel Smotrich, Minister of Finance and head of the 'Religious Zionist Party'. These leaders, although representing about 10% of the electorate, wield significant influence in Israeli politics, as their weight is such that Netanyahu cannot afford to dismiss them without risking the collapse of his government.
Ancient Roots of Ideology
The ideology of these new ministers is rooted in the settler movement born after the Six-Day War in 1967. For them, Israel’s swift victory was a divine sign calling for settling in the newly conquered territories. Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir are heirs to this ideology, mixing nationalism, messianism, and Jewish supremacism. They advocate for the total annexation of the West Bank and reject any idea of territorial compromise with the Palestinians. Their vision aligns with controversial figures like Meir Kahane, founder of the Jewish Defense League, who advocated for the expulsion of Arabs from Israel. Although his party was banned in 1988 for inciting racism, his ideas continue to influence a fringe of the radical right.
On the Path to Ethnic Cleansing?
The paths of Smotrich and Ben-Gvir reveal their radicalism. Smotrich was arrested in 2005 during the disengagement of Gaza, suspected of preparing violent actions. Ben-Gvir, on the other hand, became known as a teenager participating in far-right movements. Their rise to power has been gradual, capitalizing on the rightward shift of Israeli society. They have managed to exploit the fears and frustrations of a segment of the population, particularly in response to security threats. To advance their agenda, these far-right leaders do not hesitate to resort to controversial methods: using the law to expropriate Palestinians (Smotrich), media provocation, and incendiary rhetoric (Ben-Gvir), and support for violent settlers in the West Bank. Their strategy relies on a cynical exploitation of the fears of the Israeli population, notably after Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Ben-Gvir, in particular, has constructed his image as a 'sheriff,' protector of Israelis. His media appearances, armed in sensitive neighborhoods, have added to his popularity with a segment of the electorate.
The presence of the far right in the government has significant consequences for Israeli politics and international relations. These changes lead to the radicalization of society, increased communal tensions, and growing international isolation of Israel. The question arises for Israeli society and leaders: continue on the current radical path or seek ways to a more moderate and inclusive policy for the stable future of the region.
