In a significant political pivot, Israel's far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, finds himself welcomed in Washington, fostering closer U.S.-Israeli economic ties.
Far-Right Israeli Minister Gains Welcome in Washington Amid Political Shift
Far-Right Israeli Minister Gains Welcome in Washington Amid Political Shift
Bezalel Smotrich's visit marks a stark contrast to past tensions between the U.S. and Israeli officials under the Biden administration.
In a historic shift, Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's finance minister, traveled to Washington on March 5, 2025, meeting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, marking a stark turnaround from the prior Biden administration's approach towards him. Notably, Smotrich was openly criticized for his contentious stance against a cease-fire in Gaza and his advocacy for Jewish settlements in the West Bank.
Under the Trump administration, however, he is being embraced as an ally, with U.S. officials aligning themselves with some of his perspectives on the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Following their meeting, Smotrich called the occasion "very important," signaling a renewed era of cooperation after a four-year hiatus from ministerial engagements with the U.S. Treasury due to strained relations.
Post-meeting, Smotrich took to social media, sharing a photo with Bessent and highlighting their commitment to "enhance collaboration" in various fields, including economic policy, technology, and financial regulations. His statement also emphasized the potential for redefining "a new strategic economic future for both countries," positioning Israel as a pivotal partner in advancing American global leadership.
