Bezalel Smotrich criticizes Hamas negotiations and calls for Gaza control

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has criticized recent negotiations between U.S. envoy Jared Kushner and Hamas representatives in Cairo. Smotrich argued that Israel should focus on the continued assassination of Hamas leaders rather than engaging in talks with the group.

Smotrich expressed support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to accept a 15-point disarmament plan that involves a phased withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza. He stated that the objective of destroying Hamas is incompatible with negotiating with its leaders. Furthermore, Smotrich advocated for Israel to take full control of the Gaza Strip and establish Israeli settlements in the territory, noting that plans for three settlements in northern Gaza are currently awaiting government approval.