Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced on June 29, 2026, that detailed plans have been finalized to establish three new Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip. According to Smotrich, these plans are now awaiting formal approval from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He stated that the Defense Ministry’s Settlement Administration, under his oversight, has completed the necessary groundwork for the settlements in the northern region of Gaza. Smotrich emphasized that the settlements would serve as a critical security measure for Israeli communities along the border, asserting that “where there is no settlement, there is no security.”
The announcement followed a tour of southern Israeli communities affected by the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent conflict. During this visit, Smotrich met with Alon Davidi, the mayor of Sderot, to discuss reconstruction efforts in areas devastated by the war. He reiterated his long-standing advocacy for expanding Israeli settlements, particularly in both the West Bank and Gaza. Smotrich has previously urged Netanyahu to annex and settle territories in these regions, arguing that such actions are essential for ensuring long-term security for Israeli citizens.
Smotrich’s proposal to establish settlements in Gaza faces significant opposition, especially from international actors. The United States has consistently opposed any return to settlement activity in the territory, viewing it as a major obstacle to peace negotiations and regional stability. Despite this, Smotrich has continued to push for territorial expansion, even suggesting that the conclusion of the war against Hamas should coincide with increased Israeli presence in Gaza. In April 2026, he had called on Netanyahu to fully occupy and resettle the Gaza Strip, aligning with the prime minister’s recent directive for the Israel Defense Forces to take control of 70 percent of the area—an extent beyond what was permitted under the October 2025 ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
The announcement of the proposed settlements did not go unnoticed by the families of those who lost loved ones during the conflict. At a ceremony in Kibbutz Ein HaShlosha, where four residents were killed during the Hamas assault, Eyal Eshel, the father of slain IDF soldier Roni Eshel, confronted Smotrich directly. Eshel accused the minister of contributing to the deaths of hostages by opposing early ceasefire agreements that could have led to their safe return. He demanded that Smotrich resign, stating, “You should resign. Why haven’t you done that?” Eshel further questioned why Smotrich had not resigned on the day of the attack, October 7, 2023, which he referred to as the “black Sabbath.”
Smotrich responded to the accusations by acknowledging the anger of those present but defended his role, saying he was there to ensure Israel’s success. Liora Ben Tzur, another resident of the kibbutz whose mother was among the victims of the attack, attempted to mediate the situation, emphasizing the need for unity. However, Eshel rejected her attempt, stating that Smotrich was not speaking on behalf of the people. Outside the event, a group of protesters gathered against Smotrich’s involvement, highlighting the deep divisions within Israeli society regarding the ongoing conflict and its aftermath.
Smotrich’s controversial remarks prompted further backlash, leading to the cancellation of a planned visit to Kibbutz Be’eri, where residents expressed strong disapproval of his comments on hostage rescue efforts. Rabbi Elhanan Danino, the father of slain captive Ori Danino, criticized Smotrich for opposing ceasefire deals. He cited statements from individuals in the defense establishment, indicating that Smotrich regularly pressured Netanyahu to avoid any agreements that might lead to an end to hostilities. Danino expressed hope for a swift reckoning for Smotrich, reflecting the growing sentiment of frustration among families of the captured and deceased.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the potential implementation of Smotrich’s settlement plans remains uncertain. While the finance minister has secured support from certain factions within the government, the broader implications of such a move could significantly impact diplomatic relations and internal cohesion. With upcoming national elections approaching, the debate over the future of Israeli settlements in Gaza is likely to intensify, shaping the trajectory of both domestic policy and international engagement.
5 reports
The Times of IsraelIndependentRightFactual 95Objective 854 days agoFinance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that plans have been finalized to establish three new Israeli settlements in northern Gaza, requiring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval. Smotrich, known for advocating settlement expansion, argued that these settlements would enhance security for Israeli border communities. His comments followed a visit to Gaza-border communities where he reviewed post-war rehabilitation efforts. Smotrich emphasized that Jewish settlements in Gaza would serve as a 'security belt' and claimed that current Israeli control over 70% of Gaza's territory is insufficient. Despite his push for territorial expansion, such a move faces strong opposition from the United States and is considered unlikely. Netanyahu had previously ordered the IDF to take control of 70% of Gaza, exceeding the temporary control agreed upon in a 2025 ceasefire deal. During Smotrich's visit, a father of an IDF soldier killed in the October 7 Hamas attack criticized him, accusing him of contributing to the loss of hostages.
Bias read (Right): The article frames Smotrich's advocacy for expanding settlements in Gaza as a necessary security measure, using language like 'security belt' and 'true security.' It highlights his alignment with right-wing policies and emphasizes his calls for territorial expansion, while downplaying international,
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports Smotrich's statements and includes relevant context such as international opposition. It maintains a relatively neutral tone throughout.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentRightFactual 95Objective 803 days agoFinance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to establish three Israeli settlements in the northern Gaza Strip, stating they are complete and await Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approval. Smotrich emphasized the need for these settlements to enhance security for southern Israeli communities, particularly after the October 7 attacks. He claimed that the Israeli military controls approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip and called for completing the 'conquest' of the remaining areas to create a security buffer. Smotrich, known for his far-right views and advocacy for West Bank and Gaza annexation, faces international criticism for these positions. His recent visit to Gaza-border communities included a cancellation of a planned stop at Kibbutz Be’eri due to protests from families of hostages, highlighting tensions around his role in the conflict.
Bias read (Right): The article frames Smotrich's settlement plans as necessary for national security, using language like 'restore real security,' 'security buffer,' and 'conquest.' It highlights his controversial stance on annexation and his alignment with far-right policies, while downplaying international criticism
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article provides specific details about Smotrich's statements and actions regarding Gaza settlements. It mentions international criticism but does so neutrally without overtly favoring any perspective.
HaaretzIndependent🔒RightFactual 90Objective 753 days agoThe article reports on Israeli Minister of Justice Yariv Levin (nicknamed Smotrich) stating that Israel must complete the conquest of Gaza and is prepared to establish three new settlements there immediately. The remarks reflect a hardline stance on territorial control and expansion within the Gaza Strip, which is currently under Hamas administration. Such claims are controversial and widely disputed by international law and most global governments, which consider Gaza occupied territory. The statement highlights ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestinian authorities, as well as broader debates over settlement policies and their implications for regional stability.
Bias read (Right): The article frames the statement as a direct assertion of Israeli sovereignty over Gaza, using strong language such as 'finish conquering' and emphasizing immediate settlement construction. This aligns with right-wing nationalist rhetoric that supports territorial expansion and downplays Palestinian
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): The headline is sensationalized, but the content aligns with other sources. The article presents Smotrich's claims without clear bias, though the title may affect perceived neutrality.
The Jerusalem PostIndependentRightFactual 90Objective 703 days ago Netanyahu said ‘voluntary migration’ from Gaza still on table, avoided ruling out settlementsPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that 'voluntary migration' from Gaza remains under consideration, though he did not confirm it as an active policy. He also avoided directly ruling out the possibility of renewed Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip, despite previous skepticism about such efforts. The remarks occurred during an interview with The Patriots, a right-leaning political show on Channel 14, which aligns with Netanyahu's political base. While Netanyahu emphasized maintaining core Israeli interests and adopting a flexible yet assertive diplomatic strategy, he refrained from making explicit commitments on either issue. His comments reflect ongoing internal debates within his coalition regarding the future of Gaza and Israel's strategic priorities.
Bias read (Right): The article frames Netanyahu's ambiguous stance on 'voluntary migration' and potential settlements as aligned with the Right flank of his coalition. The emphasis on avoiding a direct ruling out of settlements, coupled with the context of right-leaning media (Channel 14 and The Patriots), suggests a傾
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 70): The article accurately summarizes Netanyahu's comments on voluntary migration and settlements. However, it frames the discussion within a right-leaning context, which may influence objectivity.
The Times of IsraelIndependentRightFactual 85Objective 752 days ago Netanyahu claims he saved Israel from destruction as Iran ‘already obtained’ atomic bombPrime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed during an interview that Iran 'already obtained' a nuclear bomb, asserting that he saved Israel from destruction. This assertion, made on a right-wing channel, was the first time Netanyahu had publicly stated such a claim. His election rivals, including Yashar Party leader Gadi Eisenkot and former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, dismissed the claim as false, stating there is no credible evidence that Iran has developed nuclear weapons. They argued that Netanyahu's remarks were intended to scare the public and manipulate perception. Intelligence assessments from the U.S. and Israel do not support the idea that Iran currently possesses nuclear weapons, though Iran has been accused of enriching uranium beyond peaceful uses. Iran denies seeking to acquire a nuclear bomb but maintains its right to a civilian nuclear program.
Bias read (Right): The article frames Netanyahu's claim as a misleading narrative used to manipulate public fear, aligning with right-wing criticism of his leadership. While the content itself is factual, the emphasis on Netanyahu's alleged deception and the dismissal of his claim by right-wing figures suggests a pro-
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article accurately reports Netanyahu's claim and the reactions from opponents. However, it leans slightly toward presenting Netanyahu's claim as exaggerated based on a single source, which may introduce bias.
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