
Bezalel Smotrich, the Finance Minister of Israel, recently emphasized that Israel has the unwavering support of former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a controversial policy. This policy links the annexation of Gaza to the treatment of Israeli hostages. His remarks were made during an address at the Institute for Haredi Strategy and Policy.
During his speech, Smotrich advocated for halting all electricity, water supply, and humanitarian assistance to Gaza. He issued a stark warning to Hamas, stating that “any harm to a hostage” would compel Israel to impose sovereignty over “5% of Gaza.” He reiterated, “We have complete support” for this approach, referencing Trump’s endorsement.
Smotrich proposed a definitive ultimatum for Hamas, stating, “When the conflict resumes, all previously released terrorists must be apprehended again. This process won’t take long, and the message must be clear: for every harmed hostage, Israel will assert control over 5% of Gaza on that very day. One more hostage lost, another 5% under Israeli sovereignty, and we have the full support of President Trump on this issue.”
