Tensions between two key ministers in the government are at simmering point and close to boiling over, according to a report in Israel Hayom. During a meeting held on Monday between the leaders of the coalition parties, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich brought up the transfer of authority over the Civil Administration from Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to him, which has yet to be actualized.
The transfer of authority, one of the key clauses in the coalition agreements between Smotrich's Religious Zionism party and Likud, has been a contentious issue in the government ever since it was sworn in. Those close to Smotrich claim that Gallant is intentionally delaying the transfer as the military establishment opposes it, while officials within the Defense Ministry claim that the process has already begun.
During the meeting between party leaders, Shas leader Aryeh Deri interjected, stating, "The coalition agreements must be respected." Another person who was at the meeting but who remains unnamed added, "You can feel the tension surrounding the matter. Smotrich is showing that his patience is running out."
Smotrich has met with Netanyahu and Gallant multiple times over the past few weeks to discuss the issue. During Monday's meeting, he told those present, "With all due respect to Gallant, I did not negotiate with him, nor did I sign the coalition agreement with him. I signed with Prime Minister Netanyahu, and we went into great detail. This is not something that is dependent on a decision being made by the Defense Minister. You have to follow through on agreements, as that is the basis of maintaining stability in government."