Smotrich Reportedly Sought Maoz’s Election Withdrawal Through an Intermediary

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reportedly pursued indirect contacts with Noam chairman Avi Maoz over withdrawing his party from the election. The contemplated offer was a deputy-minister position or leadership of a directorate dealing with education and Jewish identity in the next government. A public statement on October 21 was reportedly initially intended to address both Maoz and Ofer Winter, but the Maoz portion was removed shortly before it was delivered. Contacts with Maoz were instead pursued through an intermediary, on the assessment that quiet negotiations would be more productive. The account does not confirm an agreement, a withdrawal or an appointment.