Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has proposed that Israel should extend its borders to include territories in Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. In an interview for the Arte documentary ‘Israel: Extremists in Power,’ Smotrich referred to scriptures that advocate for this expansion, igniting discussions on the role of far-right ideologies within the Israeli government amidst ongoing conflicts, particularly in Gaza.
The Finance Minister of Israel, Bezalel Smotrich, has publicly asserted his intention for Israel to expand its borders to encompass not only the Palestinian territories but also significant portions of neighboring Arab nations. During an interview for the Arte documentary ‘Israel: Extremists in Power,’ Smotrich articulated a vision of a Jewish state that would extend into Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, referring to scriptural promises regarding territorial expansion. Smotrich specifically referenced the desire for Jerusalem to extend its influence to Damascus, which underscores a traditional ambition held by certain factions within the Israeli far-right and ultra-nationalist movements for expansive territorial claims throughout the Middle East. Furthermore, the documentary sheds light on the rising influence of Smotrich and fellow far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir within Israel’s most right-leaning government to date, coinciding with the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This power dynamic has implications for the already fragile fabric of Israeli society and the deteriorating circumstances faced by Palestinians. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strategically allied himself with these far-right figures, particularly following the departure of former Defense Minister Benny Gantz from the emergency war cabinet, which was precipitated by contrasting views on military strategies and the issue of Israeli captives held by Hamas.
The statements from Bezalel Smotrich reflect a broader ideological framework within segments of Israeli politics that advocate for extensive territorial claims based on historical and religious justifications. This ideology is particularly pronounced among certain far-right factions, which envision a Jewish state that includes not only present-day Israel but also territories considered biblically or historically significant. The context of the current geopolitical climate, specifically regarding the ongoing conflict and military operations in Gaza, serves to exacerbate these tensions further, influencing public opinion and governmental policy.
In conclusion, Bezalel Smotrich’s statements advocating for the expansion of Israel’s borders into vast territories of neighboring Arab countries underscore a significant and controversial ideology within Israel’s far-right political landscape. The implications of such territorial ambitions are profound, potentially deepening societal divisions and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Palestinian territories, while altering the dynamics of regional relations in the Middle East.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
