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Israel's Finance Minister: Hamas Faces Ultimatum to Disarm

2/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli Finance Minister, announced on February 23 that Hamas may face an ultimatum to disarm Gaza.
If Hamas does not comply, the Israeli Defense Forces would have legitimacy and American support to act.
Smotrich is a member of Israel’s security Cabinet.
He noted the peace plan includes an International Stabilization Force, though deployment may be slow.

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Story summary

Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli Finance Minister, announced on February 23 that Hamas may face an ultimatum to disarm Gaza.
If Hamas does not comply, the Israeli Defense Forces would have legitimacy and American support to act.
Smotrich is a member of Israel’s security Cabinet.
He noted the peace plan includes an International Stabilization Force, though deployment may be slow.