'Get to Work or Resign': Smotrich Faces Backlash after Kochav Yair Attack Response

A fiery social media statement by Finance Minister and Minister within the Defense Ministry Bezalel Smotrich has ignited a massive backlash online. Following a severe security escalation in Kochav Yair, the Religious Zionism party leader took to X (formerly Twitter) to demand a shift in strategy. Within minutes, social media users fiercely attacked the minister, reminding him of his own direct executive power and personal responsibility as a member of the security cabinet.

The Backlash Online

Numerous commentators expressed deep resentment over Smotrich’s tone, arguing that he is speaking like an outside political commentator rather than a senior official holding the reins of power.

"You are a minister in the government... why are you giving advice to yourself?" one user questioned. Others pointed out the contradiction of a cabinet minister publicly lamenting government policy. "A government minister is supposed to implement policy, not tweet about his dissatisfaction with the government he sits in," another user wrote. "The responsibility for everything happening here is also on you. So either resign or get to work."

Many responses accused the current government of failing to deliver on its security promises. One user noted with irony, "Bezalel, we are really waiting for you to finally be a part of the government. I am sure things will move then... you are a hot air balloon and zero in actions."

In His Own Words

The outrage was sparked directly by Smotrich's official response to the terrorism attack at a gas station near Kochav Yair. In his public statement following the violent event, Smotrich called for a radical reassessment of the security status quo in Judea and Samaria.

"The time has come for us to look reality in the eyes," Smotrich declared in the official remarks that triggered the online storm, describing the surge in violence as a "bloody wake up call" that requires immediate, aggressive action.