Smotrich says plans drawn up to establish 3 Israeli settlements in Gaza

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced on Monday that detailed plans have been finalized for the establishment of three new Israeli settlements in the northern Gaza Strip, pending approval from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Smotrich, the necessary groundwork has already been completed by the Defense Ministry's Settlement Administration, which he oversees. He emphasized that once Netanyahu gives the go-ahead, the settlements can be implemented "immediately."

Smotrich made these remarks following a meeting with Alon Davidi, the mayor of Sderot, during a visit to southern Israel. This trip included inspections of newly constructed neighborhoods in Kibbutz Nir Oz, a community severely affected by the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. During the visit, Smotrich expressed the belief that establishing settlements in Gaza would provide a crucial security buffer for southern Israeli communities.

Smotrich also highlighted that the Israel Defense Forces currently control approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip. He argued that further territorial gains are essential to ensure long-term security for border communities. In his view, the absence of settlements equates to a lack of security, a sentiment he reiterated while visiting areas impacted by the conflict.

The proposed settlement initiative aligns with Smotrich’s broader agenda of expanding Israeli presence in both the West Bank and Gaza. However, his calls for annexation have frequently drawn international criticism, particularly from European allies of Israel, who have imposed sanctions on him due to concerns about the implications for Israel's global reputation and relations.

Despite Smotrich's assertions, the prospect of returning to settlement activities in Gaza faces significant resistance, notably from the United States. The U.S. government has consistently opposed such moves, considering them counterproductive to regional stability and peace efforts. In April, Smotrich urged Netanyahu to fully occupy and resettle the Gaza Strip, asserting that the conclusion of hostilities against Hamas should coincide with territorial expansion.

Netanyahu previously instructed the IDF to gain control of 70% of Gaza, surpassing the temporary access permitted under an October 2025 ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This ceasefire marked the cessation of hostilities initiated by the October 7 attack.

During Smotrich’s visit to the southern region, tensions arose when Eyal Eshel, the father of slain IDF soldier Roni Eshel, confronted the minister. Eshel accused Smotrich of contributing to the deaths of hostages by opposing early ceasefire agreements that might have led to their safe return. His confrontation occurred during a speech at Kibbutz Ein HaShlosha, a site where Hamas militants had attacked and killed four residents.

Smotrich faced additional backlash from former hostages and bereaved families after he took personal credit for the release of all captured individuals. Despite his repeated opposition to deals that would have resulted in earlier releases, he asserted that his actions were instrumental in securing the return of the hostages. This stance sparked outrage among those directly affected by the conflict.

Smotrich's recent visit to Kibbutz Be'eri was canceled following protests from the families of the 32 Gaza hostages originally from that community. These families voiced strong opposition to his comments regarding his involvement in the hostage situation. The minister had previously participated in a podcast interview where he claimed responsibility for ensuring the safe return of the hostages, suggesting that his decisions significantly influenced the outcome of the war.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, the potential for new settlements in Gaza remains contingent upon Netanyahu's decision. The international community's response, along with domestic sentiments, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Israel's policies toward the occupied territories.