Podcast Summary: "Why did Israel restart the war? One answer: Bezalel Smotrich"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Consider This from NPR
• Host/Author: NPR
• Episode Title: Why did Israel restart the war? One answer: Bezalel Smotrich
• Release Date: March 28, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of NPR's Consider This, host Scott Detrow delves into the complex reasons behind Israel's decision to resume military action against Hamas. Central to this decision is Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, whose ultra-nationalist stance has significantly influenced both domestic politics and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Public Opposition to Resuming the War

Scott Detrow opens by highlighting the substantial domestic opposition to Israel's renewed military efforts against Hamas. "Last weekend, more than 100,000 took to the streets in cities across the country," [00:00] protests were organized in major cities, including Tel Aviv where demonstrators chanted, "If an agreement isn't reached, it is murder for the hostages." These protests underscore the tension between public opinion and government actions, especially concerning the safety of hostages held in Gaza.

Netanyahu's Political Struggles

The episode outlines Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's precarious political position. Despite polls indicating that public sentiment is shifting away from him, Netanyahu's immediate concerns revolve around maintaining his coalition. "Netanyahu's fate does not depend on public opinion. It depends on holding together his coalition," [01:10] explains Alan Penkas, a former Israeli diplomat. Netanyahu faces multiple challenges, including ongoing trials for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust, which could result in imprisonment if convicted. Additionally, his attempts to overhaul the judicial system have sparked mass protests, adding to his political vulnerabilities.

The Rise of Bezalel Smotrich

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Bezalel Smotrich, tracing his journey from a controversial figure to a key player in Israeli politics. NPR’s Hadil Alshalshi narrates Smotrich's early years when he was once targeted by Israel's internal security agency, Shin Bet, in 2005. Despite being arrested and interrogated for several weeks, Smotrich was released without charges, remaining silent throughout the process. This period marked the beginning of his transformation into an influential ultra-nationalist leader.

"Smotrich's faithful devotion is evident every time he threatens to collapse Netanyahu's coalition if the war doesn't continue." [07:07] – Tomer Persico

Smotrich’s political philosophy is deeply rooted in religious Zionism, advocating for the governance of Israel strictly according to the Torah. As an ultra Orthodox nationalist, he rejects liberal values and champions the permanent settlement of the West Bank, which he refers to as Judea and Samaria, a biblically significant region.

Political Strategy and Coalition Dynamics

Netanyahu's reliance on Smotrich and other far-right parties is crucial for the survival of his government. Hadil Alshalshi explains that Smotrich's party became a pivotal part of Netanyahu's coalition, granting them unprecedented influence. This alliance allowed Smotrich to gain control over the Ministry of Defense and oversee settler activities in the West Bank, pushing forward annexation plans that have significant geopolitical implications.

"Primal force that is withholding the end of the war." [08:17] – Tomer Persico

Smotrich leverages his position to further the settlement agenda, often at the expense of Palestinian communities. This strategy was particularly evident when, following a temporary ceasefire in January, Netanyahu escalated incursions in the West Bank, leading to widespread destruction and displacement of Palestinians under the guise of eliminating militants.

International Relations and Future Implications

The episode also explores Smotrich's interactions on the international stage, particularly his recent meeting with officials from President Trump's administration. While Smotrich avoids Western media, his statements during his first press conference post-visit indicate a steadfast commitment to annexing the West Bank, seeking support from key international allies.

"We believe this is the right thing to do," [09:00] Smotrich asserts when questioned about Trump's support for annexation efforts.

However, despite his strong rhetoric, Smotrich's political future within Israel remains uncertain, with only 11% of the population supporting his party in the last elections. His ability to push forward the annexation agenda heavily depends on both internal coalition dynamics and the stance of influential international players like the United States.

Conclusion

The episode concludes by emphasizing the pivotal role of Bezalel Smotrich in shaping Israel's current military and political strategies. His ultra-nationalist agenda, combined with Netanyahu's political maneuvers to maintain power amidst legal and public pressures, creates a formidable force driving Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. As Netanyahu navigates these turbulent waters, the influence of figures like Smotrich will likely determine the trajectory of the conflict and Israel's future domestic policies.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Penkas (Former Israeli Diplomat):

  "With the lack of political leadership of Hamas in Gaza, only military leaders of Hamas are left in Gaza today. And they are not necessarily taking orders from the Hamas leadership outside. We're putting the hostages in direct danger." [00:51]

• Tomer Persico (Scholar of Jewish Extremism):

  "The more Jews settle the lands that the State of Israel has conquered, the more redemption is coming close. So it's a messianic movement, very motivated, pious and devoted religion." [05:08]

• Bezalel Smotrich:

  "My long term desire is for the state of Israel to be governed according to the Torah or Jewish Holy Scripture." [05:35]

• Tomer Persico:

  "Primal force that is withholding the end of the war." [08:17]

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the multifaceted discussions from the episode, providing insights into the intersection of Israeli politics, religious nationalism, and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. By highlighting key quotes and providing detailed context, the summary offers a clear understanding of the critical factors influencing Israel's current trajectory.