WATCH: RZP will not ally with Ben-Gvir in 2026 elections, Smotrich tells 'Post'

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that his far-right Religious Zionist Party (RZP) will not seek political alliances with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir for the upcoming 2026 elections. Smotrich expressed confidence that the RZP can run and achieve success as a strong, independent party.

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I think that right now the Religious Zionist public can and should run on its own as a big, strong, significant party.

Smotrich told The Jerusalem Post that he believes the "Religious Zionist public can and should run on its own as a big, strong, significant party." This marks a shift from the 2022 elections, where the RZP ran in alliance with Ben-Gvir's Otzma Yehudit Party. That coalition contributed to the National Camp's victory, securing 64 seats and leading to Smotrich's appointment as finance minister.

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I proved, over all the recent years, that I know how to act responsibly, so that the National Camp wins.

Despite the previous success, Smotrich indicated a desire for the RZP to forge its own path. He acknowledged the past alliance's effectiveness in achieving political goals but also pointed to Ben-Gvir's resignation from the government during the term, contrasting it with his own decision to remain a "responsible" partner. Smotrich also hinted at potential regrets regarding government decisions made during the recent war, stating he would have handled some matters differently if he had more influence as prime minister, rather than just a party leader with seven seats.

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Ben-Gvir resigned and came back. I, on the one hand, stayed as a responsible [partner]. On the other hand, I also knew how to draw red lines.