UTJ Chairman Yaakov Asher Lashes Out at Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich
United Torah Judaism Chairman MK Yaakov Asher sharply criticized Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich ahead of the Knesset elections, accusing him of arrogance and ungratefulness.
Just two days before the 26th Knesset elections, United Torah Judaism Chairman MK Yaakov Asher launched a fierce attack against Finance Minister and Religious Zionism leader Bezalel Smotrich.
Speaking at the 'Olam Katan' election conference on Sunday, Asher criticized his former coalition partner, accusing him of arrogance and of ignoring the years of support provided by ultra-Orthodox parties.
"He has been talking too much lately, talking nonsense," Asher said, referring to the finance minister's recent statements. "He does not understand why there need to be Haredim, and even suggested our great leaders should repent. Give me a break," he added, criticizing Smotrich's attitude toward ultra-Orthodox rabbis.
Asher further lambasted Smotrich's tenure at the Treasury, asserting that he did not attain the position through exceptional talent. "He didn't become finance minister because he is so talented. He became finance minister thanks to us," Asher declared. He noted that while Smotrich advanced his own party's priorities, the ultra-Orthodox repeatedly had to compromise.
The tension between the two leaders follows remarks made by Smotrich two weeks ago in Ofra, where he called the Haredim ungrateful to God and expressed bewilderment at the ultra-Orthodox worldview in light of the Zionist enterprise's success. Smotrich's comments drew widespread outrage within the ultra-Orthodox community, prompting Rabbi Dov Lando to accuse him of desecrating God's name and call for votes for United Torah Judaism.
Asher, who was appointed chairman of Degel HaTorah last month succeeding Moshe Gafni, emphasized that regulating the draft status of yeshiva students will remain a core condition for joining any future government. Meanwhile, Smotrich warned in a recent interview that ultra-Orthodox parties might hold a bidding war after the elections, though he still views them as vital partners for the national camp.
