Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich sparked controversy by advocating for Israel to expand its borders to Damascus in a recent documentary. In the film In Israel: Ministers of Chaos, he outlined a vision for Israel to gradually encompass all Palestinian territories, as well as neighboring countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia, based on the ideology of “greater Israel.”
Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced Smotrich’s comments as dangerous and racist, particularly his denial of Palestinian identity. The French government also distanced itself from him during his visit to Paris.
As finance minister, Smotrich now wields significant power over the West Bank. He has previously supported cutting aid to Gaza and advocated for the destruction of the Palestinian village of Huwwara following clashes with Israeli settlers.
Smotrich’s extreme views have drawn condemnation for their aggression and disregard for international norms. His rhetoric raises concerns about the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations and stability in the region.