Story perspectives

Smotrich Pushes Gaza Settlements as 1,000-Day Memorials Spark Protests

7/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced three new Jewish settlements in northern Gaza, awaiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval.
Israel held nationwide memorials on the 1,000-day anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack and called for a war-time inquiry.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would not rule out Gaza settlements, preferring action over talk.
The October Council and bereaved families protested, demanding an independent investigation and disrupting Knesset access.

History

Historical Context

In 2005, under Ariel Sharon, Israel evacuated roughly 9,000 settlers from 21 Gaza settlements, completing the unilateral disengagement in September and ending the first Israeli civilian presence in Gaza while retaining control of airspace and borders. Now Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich backs a plan for three new settlements, reviving debate that began during the 2003-2005 disengagement.

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Story summary

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced three new Jewish settlements in northern Gaza, awaiting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval.
Israel held nationwide memorials on the 1,000-day anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack and called for a war-time inquiry.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would not rule out Gaza settlements, preferring action over talk.
The October Council and bereaved families protested, demanding an independent investigation and disrupting Knesset access.

1 / 2