Business Forum Reacts to Smotrich’s Controversial Remarks: “Charges Should Be Filed Without Immunity”
Business Forum’s Strong Response
In a significant statement made by the Business Forum, which includes the leaders of 200 major companies, reaction emerged today to remarks from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Following a lengthy silence since April, the Forum condemned Smotrich’s comments regarding the President of the Supreme Court, Yitzhak Amit, labeling them as dangerous and uncalled for. Smotrich referred to Amit as “violent” and a “megalomaniac” and suggested that “we will trample him if necessary.” The Forum criticized these remarks as unacceptable, asserting that “if the Finance Minister did not have immunity, he should have been indicted for serious incitement.”
Implications for the Israeli Economy
The Forum further stated that such inflammatory comments undermine the status of the legal system and the government itself, potentially harming Israel’s global economic standing. The statement read, “A Finance Minister who incites against the judiciary and a governmental symbol sends a terrible message at all levels to the people of Israel and to the world’s rating agencies.” The warning continues, noting that while Israel shows remarkable economic resilience, incidents like this could lead to downgrades due to perceived governmental brutality and attempts at regime change.
Historical Context and Recent Developments
This response comes after a period of dormancy for the Business Forum, which played a significant role in opposing government actions related to criminal juststart reforms and hostage releases. Following the dismissal of the Shabak chief, Rstartn Bar, in April and the conclusion of the war, the Forum had refrained from voicing its opinions. However, as tensions surrounding judicial reforms resurface, the Forum may increase its activity once again.
Smotrich’s Controversial Statements
In recent comments during a meeting of the Religious Zionist Party, Smotrich described Chief Juststart Yitzhak Amit as a “violent, megalomaniac” who is “stealing Israeli democracy.” He further stated, “He lives in extreme unawareness and feels entitled to do things that have never been dstart in court before. The outcome will be that we will trample him, if necessary.” These comments have sparked significant backlash from various fronts, including members within the Business Forum.
Ongoing Economic Challenges
The Business Forum’s discontent is exacerbated by rising living costs, a concern that Smotrich himself has recognized. Ahead of the 2026 elections, he has undertaken measures to alleviate financial burdens, such as expanding VAT exemptions, which have met criticism from the Forum members, including prominent figures associated with the textile industry. Additionally, members of the Forum, including the CEOs of major banks, find themselves at odds with policies Smotrich has proposed, such as applying a fixed tax on large banks to control their profit margins.
Meta Description: The Business Forum, representing Israel’s largest companies, responds to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s incendiary remarks against Chief Juststart Yitzhak Amit, calling for potential legal consequences and warning against the implications for the Israeli economy.
Tags: Israel, Business Forum, Bezalel Smotrich, Yitzhak Amit, Supreme Court, judicial reform, incitement, economy, living costs, governmental policy.