Right-wing Israeli ministers assert that there can be no victory over Israel until Gaza is “completely destroyed” and Palestinians are pushed to other countries.
During a meeting on Jewish settlements in the West Bank on Tuesday, Israeli Finance Minister Bazarel Smotrich shared his views. Although he holds a significant position, his statements do not reflect the official stance of the Israeli government.
Smotrich declared, “We can declare a victory in Gaza within a year. Gaza will be completely destroyed, civilians will be relocated to the humanitarian zone in the south, away from Hamas and its attacks, from where they will move to many other countries.” He further stated, “Israel is not planning to withdraw from the territory captured by the IDF, even as a condition for releasing hostages.”
His comments followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government’s approval of a plan to assume control over Gaza for an indefinite period.
Netanyahu remarked in a video that the situation is “intensive,” suggesting that more Palestinians will be moving to South Gaza for their safety.
The cabinet’s plan was approved recently, but its execution hinges on whether a hostage deal is reached before President Donald Trump’s visit to Israel on May 13.
Currently, Israel controls approximately 50% of Gaza, and the strategy anticipates a gradual expansion of Israeli forces into the South. Officials indicated that this would see Israeli forces establish a presence in Hamas territory.
The plan, termed the Gideon’s Tank Operation, aims to prevent Hamas from distributing humanitarian aid. Authorities have accused Hamas of hoarding assistance to bolster its capabilities, while also planning significant strikes on Hamas targets.
Smotrich, in his remarks, said, “We wish to face tired, hungry, and exhausted enemies. They shouldn’t have supplies or aid coming from the strip.”
