Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich suffered a setback as Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, a reserve D-9 bulldozer operator and rabbinical court judge, declined the second spot on the party list. Sources close to Zarbiv said he wants to remain non-partisan and 'belong to all of Israel,' according to reports.
Religious Zionism chairman Bezalel Smotrich had offered the second slot on the party list to Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, a reserve D-9 bulldozer operator who gained fame for destroying terrorist infrastructure in Gaza and Lebanon, as The Zioneer reported in July. Zarbiv has now declined the offer, with his associates saying he wants to remain non-partisan and 'belong to all of Israel.' The decision is a blow to Smotrich, who had hoped to boost the party's profile with a popular figure known for his military service. No further details were provided.
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