In response, Leon replied to Smotrich: "You are the best finance minister Jerusalem has ever had." Against the backdrop of the change in policy on the Temple Mount, Finance Minister (RZP) Bezalel Smotrich spoke to thousands of participants at a conference marking the anniversary of Rabbi Kook’s passing on Sunday. Smotrich spoke twice during the event, which took place at the Jerusalem International Convention Center. His first speech in the afternoon addressed the ongoing war.
When Smotrich took the stage for a second time, in front of the thousands of people present, Smotrich smiled at Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and said, "I will give the money, you will build the Temple." The crowd burst into laughter, and sources who were there told Walla that Smotrich said it "as a joke."
In response, Lion replied to Smotrich: "You are the best finance minister Jerusalem has ever had." While it was intended as a joke, it comes at a time when there is, in fact, a de facto shift in the policy surrounding the Temple Mount. Ministers like Itamar Ben-Gvir and others are increasingly visiting the Mount, praying, and even prostrating themselves in defiance of the established regulations. The Prime Minister’s Office has emphasized that there is no change in the official procedures.
As mentioned, the event attracted thousands of visitors, who enjoyed various special exhibits, including a visit to Rabbi Kook's restored study, a chance to view the "Greater" Israel map, and opportunities to attend lectures from Religious Zionist rabbis. (Source)
