Full Breakdown
Smotrich Calls for Israeli Control Over Gaza Amid U.S. Plan
1/20/2026, 12:30:43 AM
Critique of Trump's Gaza Plan
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has publicly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's plan for Gaza, asserting that it is detrimental to Israel's interests and should be abandoned. Speaking at the inauguration of the Yatziv settlement in Gush Etzion, Smotrich emphasized that Israel must take full responsibility for Gaza, stating, “Gaza is ours, and its future will affect our future more than anyone else’s.” He called for the imposition of military rule over the region and warned against the involvement of countries he deems hostile to Israel, such as Turkey and Qatar.
Calls for Military Action
Smotrich has proposed a decisive military strategy, urging the Israeli government to issue Hamas a short ultimatum to disarm and go into exile. He suggested that if Hamas does not comply, Israel should launch a full-scale military operation to eliminate the group. “It’s either us or them,” he declared, advocating for either complete Israeli control over Gaza or the risk of losing the gains made during the ongoing conflict.
Opposition to U.S.-Led Coordination Center
In addition to his criticisms of Trump's plan, Smotrich has called for the dismantling of the U.S.-led Civil Military Coordination Centre (CMCC) located in Kiryat Gat. This center was established to facilitate post-war planning and humanitarian aid in Gaza, involving personnel from various countries, including Egypt, Britain, Germany, and Canada. Smotrich argued that the presence of representatives from these nations undermines Israel's security and that their removal is necessary for Israel to act in its best interests.
Official Statements & Responses
Israeli officials have expressed concerns regarding the composition of the newly announced Gaza Board of Peace, which includes representatives from Turkey and Qatar. These officials indicated that they were not informed in advance about the board's makeup, which they believe contradicts Israeli policy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has tasked Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar with addressing these concerns with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Criticism & Opposition
Smotrich's hardline stance has drawn criticism from various quarters, including those who advocate for a more diplomatic approach to the Gaza situation. Critics argue that his proposals could escalate tensions further and undermine any potential for peace. The inclusion of Turkey and Qatar in the U.S. plan has also been met with skepticism, as many view these nations as supporters of Hamas.
What's Next
As the situation evolves, the U.S. has announced that Trump's plan is moving into its second phase, which will focus on the demilitarization and reconstruction of Gaza. The Israeli government faces the challenge of balancing internal pressures from far-right factions like Smotrich's Religious Zionism party while navigating complex international relations concerning Gaza's future governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We must explain to him that his plan is bad for the State of Israel and cancel it.” — Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister
- “Mr. Prime Minister, it's either us or them. Either full Israeli control, the destruction of Hamas, and the continued long-term suppression of terrorism, encouragement of the enemy's emigration outward and permanent Israeli settlement,” — Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister
- “The time has come to dismantle the headquarters in Kiryat Gat,” — Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister
- “Erdogan is [former Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar. Qatar is Hamas. There is no difference,” — Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister
- “I do not intend to wait another 20 years to return to Gaza.” — Bezalel Smotrich, Finance Minister
This article highlights the ongoing debate within Israel regarding the future of Gaza and the implications of U.S. involvement in the region, as articulated by key political figures.
