Netanyahu Tries to Keep Smotrich Out of the Defense Ministry
T. Belman I disagree with the sub-title. I think Netanyahu will cave at the last second, not the Rabbis. I wonder if it is possible to separate out Area C from the Defence portfolio. If so it may be a workable compromise. But I don’t think that will happen because the US is not worried about who will defend the country but is worried who will be in charge of Area C.
What most distinguishes the Right from the centre or Left is their plans for area C. The Right wants to keep it all and the others want to give it to the Palestinians for their state.. That’s why Smotrich will not settle for anything less than Min of Defense.
The rabbis will make sure a disappointed Smotrich doesn’t trigger another election
The heads of the parties with the president, this week.Credit: Ohad Zwigenberg
Likud chief Benjamin Netanyahu is regretting two mistakes he made after the election – unforced errors uncharacteristic of a skilled politician who has already formed five governments.
First, he didn’t reserve four strategic ministries for Likud well in advance: defense, finance, foreign affairs and justice. With 32 Knesset seats, half his governing coalition, he had every right to do so.









