![[FILE] US President Donald J. Trump (L) greets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (R) upon his arrival for a meeting in the West Wing of the White House in Washington, D.C., US, April 7, 2025. EFE/FILE/SHAWN THEW](https://i0.wp.com/efe.diariosergipano.net/wp-content/s/2025/04/rss-efead2430474833392daf09ad2971371f2327b9f2a6w.webp?fit=1920%2C1280&ssl=1)
Jerusalem, Apr 20 (EFE).— Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Saturday called for the full occupation of Gaza and the imposition of a military government if necessary, saying it was the only way to destroy Hamas and ensure Israel’s security.
“Mr. Prime Minister, your statement tonight that this war must end in victory is important,” Smotrich posted on X.
“It signifies a shift in strategy. Opting for the total occupation of Gaza and not fearing (set up) a military government if necessary, to destroy Hamas and ensure Gaza no longer threatens the state of Israel.”
Smotrich, a far-right settler leader and head of the Religious Zionism party, said it would “ensure security and the rapid return of the hostages” from the Hamas captivity.
His remarks followed a pre-recorded video statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after the Sabbath, in which he said Hamas had rejected Israel’s latest ceasefire offer. The group had not made any official response at the time of his address.
Netanyahu warned that if Israel were to accept Hamas’s for ending the war and withdrawing from Gaza, US President Donald Trump’s vision for the enclave, widely interpreted by critics as a plan for mass Palestinian expulsions, would not be possible.
“The important vision of President Trump will not come to fruition,” Netanyahu said. “The vision that would change the face of Gaza once and for all and allow our country to live in security.”
The war in Gaza has displaced much of the population of over two million people, while drawing global condemnation over mounting civilian casualties. EFE pms-sk
