What It’s About

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist Party, expressed his dissatisfaction with the recent implementation of a hostage-ceasefire deal approved by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Despite his criticism, he emphasized ongoing efforts to ensure the complete victory over Hamas and the safe return of Israeli hostages.

Why It Matters

Smotrich’s remarks come amid intense discussions within Israel’s political landscape concerning strategies for addressing security threats posed by Hamas after the recent terrorist attacks. His stance highlights the unwavering commitment of certain factions within the Israeli government to prioritize national security decisively and ensure a sustained offensive until all strategic goals are met, particularly the dismantling of Hamas.

Smotrich’s Call for Complete Victory

The Finance Minister stated firmly that the overarching goal of the government should be the total defeat of Hamas. He assured that through governmental and security cabinet decisions, efforts are being reinforced to ensure the war doesn’t conclude prematurely, stressing that all objectives, including the obliteration of Hamas, must be attained.

Commitment to Resolute Action

“We won’t sit in a government that will stop the war,” Smotrich asserted, signaling his unwavering position against halting military action until “complete victory” has been achieved. He further described the current deteriorating situation in Gaza, voicing his intent that the region remains in a state deterring opposition forces from posing future threats.

Critique and a Call for Strategic Change

The Minister criticized the ineffective methods previously employed that allowed aid to bolster Hamas indirectly. His proposal for a new war approach underlines a progressive and strategic domination of Gaza, ensuring humanitarian assistance is rightly distributed, preventing it from fortifying adversary armed capabilities.

This story was first published on jpost.com.