Reports: Netanyahu-Smotrich meeting didn’t solve impasse over defense portfolio

15 November 2022, 10:47 pm

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In this handout photo, Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu meets with Religious Zionism chief Bezalel Smotrich (R), November 15, 2022. (Likud)

Following a meeting between prime minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu and Religious Zionism party leader Bezalel Smotrich, reports say it didn’t do anything to solve an impasse between them over the allocation of ministerial roles in the upcoming government.

With Smotrich insisting on demanding to become defense minister and Netanyahu reluctant to accept that demand, several outlets say Netanyahu told Smotrich during the meeting that the defense portfolio will go to a member of his Likud party.

Smotrich also conveyed a message that insisted on his previous stance and said he will “go all the way,” the reports say, even suggesting that the crisis has worsened.