Bill Ackman Slams Ben Gvir and Smotrich, Says Israel Needs New Government
American billionaire Bill Ackman criticized Israeli ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, stating their actions harm Israel's global image and a government without them would rebuild international credibility.
Prominent American-Jewish billionaire and hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, founder and CEO of Pershing Square, has strongly criticized Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. In a post on the social media platform X, Ackman argued that the two ministers have inflicted significant damage on Israel's global image, asserting that forming a government without them would help restore the country's international standing.
Ackman clarified at the outset that he does not intend to interfere in determining who should serve as Israel's prime minister, emphasizing that this choice belongs solely to Israeli citizens. However, he shared his perspective based on a deep understanding of how Israel is perceived in the United States. According to Ackman, statements and actions by Ben Gvir and Smotrich are frequently portrayed in the global media as representative of all Israelis, generating immense reputational harm.
Forming a coalition without these two far-right figures would send a clear signal to the international community that Israel is turning a new page, Ackman stated. He added that such a political realignment would enable Jerusalem to rebuild lost credibility, boost prospects for expanding the Abraham Accords, and secure bipartisan support among Democrats and Republicans, as well as the broader American public.
Ackman, a high-profile Wall Street investor, has emerged as one of the most prominent American business leaders publicly supporting Israel since the October 7 attacks. He has repeatedly spoken out against antisemitism, particularly across U.S. university campuses, while sharply criticizing academic administrations over their responses to anti-Jewish incidents. His latest remarks stand out given his vocal pro-Israel advocacy, marking a direct critique of senior members within the Israeli cabinet.
