Rising Tensions in Israel: Calls for Accountability
Israeli politics is once again engulfed in controversy as Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich faces severe backlash for inflammatory remarks against the judiciary. His comments have sparked fears of political violence reminiscent of the 1995 assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. Prominent figures, including former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, are warning that Smotrich’s rhetoric could lead to another political murder, prompting calls for his prosecution. As tensions escalate, the implications for Israel’s democracy are becoming increasingly concerning.
Incitement and Political Violence Concerns
On December 29, 2025, Bezalel Smotrich, a member of the far-right Religious Zionism Party, labeled Israeli Supreme Court President Isaac Amit as a “megalomaniac” and suggested he should be “run over.” This incendiary language has drawn sharp criticism from various sectors of Israeli society. Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has publicly stated that Smotrich and his allies are laying the groundwork for potential political violence, echoing the tragic events surrounding Rabin’s assassination.
The outcry against Smotrich’s comments has gained momentum, with over 700 academics and 142 retired judges demanding his removal from office and prosecution for incitement. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has also voiced concerns, claiming that Smotrich has threatened to “murder” the chief justice. The situation intensified further when a district court judge involved in a high-profile bribery case linked to Prime Minister Netanyahu was seriously injured in an incident that police have labeled an accident.
Olmert’s warnings highlight a broader concern regarding the far-right’s influence in Israeli politics. He argues that Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir are engaged in a systematic campaign to undermine the legal system, reminiscent of the hostile environment that preceded Rabin’s assassination. Both ministers have been associated with extremist ideologies and have histories of inciting violence against perceived enemies of the state.
A Legacy of Extremism and Division
The political landscape in Israel has been deeply affected by the legacy of extremist figures like Meir Kahane, whose ideologies continue to resonate among certain factions today. Kahane, known for his radical views, founded the Kach Party, which advocated for the expulsion of Arabs from Israel and other controversial policies. His influence can be seen in the actions and rhetoric of current politicians like Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, who have been linked to Kahanist ideologies.
The current political climate reflects a significant shift to the right, with a 2022 poll indicating that 62% of Israelis identify as right-wing. This polarization has left the left-wing parties marginalized, with the only remaining leftist representation coming from Arab parties. The recent memorial for Rabin highlighted the ongoing divisions within Israeli society, with organizers warning that incitement and division are on the rise once again.
As Israel grapples with these tensions, the memory of Rabin’s assassination looms large. Many are calling for a reassessment of the events surrounding his death, suggesting that the true perpetrators may not have been those traditionally blamed. The current political climate raises critical questions about accountability and the future of democracy in Israel, as the nation stands at a crossroads.
