Jerusalem, Israel (May 26, 2026)

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced that Tzvika Mor, a prominent voice among hostage families, will join the Religious Zionism party’s roster ahead of Israel’s upcoming Knesset elections.

Mor, the father of former hostage Eitan Mor, became a widely recognized public figure following the October 7 Hamas attack. His son was working as a security guard at the Nova music festival when terrorists overran the area. During the attack, Eitan assisted wounded and fleeing attendees before he was taken captive and brought into Gaza. He was later released after a lengthy period in captivity.

Tzvika Mor is also known as a co-founder and leading figure in the Tikva Forum, a group representing families of hostages and terror victims that has consistently pressed for a hardline approach toward Hamas. The forum has argued that Israel should maintain strong military pressure and avoid broad concessions that could endanger national security or leave Hamas in control.

Smotrich praised Mor’s decision to enter politics, presenting him as a symbol of personal strength, ideological commitment and public responsibility. The Religious Zionism leader said Mor’s experience as the father of a hostage, combined with his consistent advocacy for military pressure, gives him a powerful voice in national decision-making.

Mor’s addition to the slate appears aimed at reinforcing the party’s security-focused message as Israel moves closer to elections. Religious Zionism has made the war against Hamas, opposition to territorial concessions and a firm stance on national identity central parts of its platform.

The move also reflects the growing role of hostage families in Israel’s political conversation. Since October 7, relatives of captives have taken different public positions on how the government should pursue their loved ones’ return, with some calling for negotiated deals and others warning that concessions could strengthen Hamas.

By joining Smotrich’s party, Mor is formally entering the political arena after months of advocacy on one of the most sensitive issues in Israeli public life.