Smotrich says hostages are home 'thanks to me'

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich took personal credit for the return of Israeli hostages, saying publicly that they are home 'thanks to me'. The statement is receiving attention and criticism across Israeli politics.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich claimed personal credit for the release or return of Israeli hostages, declaring publicly that they are home 'thanks to me' (בזכותי החטופים כאן). The remark, reported by i24NEWS on Sunday afternoon, is drawing political attention and criticism, as different government figures have asserted varying degrees of responsibility for the hostage deal or operations. The full context of Smotrich's statement — whether referring to a specific deal, military pressure, or policy decisions — has not been elaborated in the initial report.

4 developments

1. 58 minutes ago · 17:08 · 28 JunLatest

   The remark sparked immediate political backlash and criticism across the spectrum.

2. 16:58 · 28 Jun

   The remark was made during an interview with journalist Nadav Perry.

3. 16:57 · 28 Jun

   The remark was reportedly made during a meeting with freed hostage Nadav Popplewell.

• Strong10:41 · 15 JunSmotrich says Gaza deal bad for Israel, vows to continue campaign in 'creative ways'
• Developing10:29 · 7 JunBezalel Smotrich comments after new ceasefire violation in the North
• Developing14:13 · 5 JunSmotrich backs Lebanon deal, in apparent shift
• Developing23:35 · 20 JunFinance Minister Smotrich tells Oded Harosh he considered resigning after October 7

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• Internal intake