What did Bezalel Smotrich announce regarding Hamas?

Bezalel Smotrich announced that Israel will give Hamas a final warning to leave Gaza and surrender their weapons. If Hamas refuses, the Israeli army will take military action to occupy the territory.

Why is this announcement significant?

This announcement is significant as it indicates a potential escalation in military conflict and reflects Israel's ongoing commitment to eliminate Hamas, which could have serious implications for the region's stability.

What are the implications of Smotrich's statements for Gaza?

Smotrich's statements suggest a possible full occupation of Gaza by Israel and the establishment of Jewish settlements, which could exacerbate tensions and conflict in the area.

Who is involved in this situation?

The key figures involved are Bezalel Smotrich, the Israeli Finance Minister, and Hamas, the governing body in Gaza. Additionally, the U.S. is mentioned in the context of potential support for Israeli actions.

How has the international community reacted to these developments?

The international community has expressed concern over Israel's settlement activities and military actions, with increasing pressure on Israel to adhere to ceasefire agreements and respect Palestinian rights.

Smotrich Threatens to Occupy Gaza: Final Warning to Hamas and Expansion of Settlements

In controversial statements, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reiterated his strong threats regarding the Gaza Strip, confirming that Israel will soon give Hamas a "final warning," demanding the movement's leaders to leave the territory and hand over their weapons and facilities, including tunnels that Israel considers a direct threat.

Smotrich, known for his extreme right-wing positions, added that if Hamas refuses to respond to this warning, Israel will take military action to resolve the situation, announcing that the Israeli army may attack and fully occupy the territory.

He stated: "If Hamas does not comply, we will gain international legitimacy to act ourselves," referring to Israel's military steps being supported by major countries.

In another development, Smotrich hinted that the Israeli army might receive "American support" to carry out this step, explaining that U.S. President Donald Trump had previously attempted to eliminate Hamas but was unsuccessful.

Smotrich confirmed: "Israel has not retreated from its goal of destroying Hamas, but it gave Trump the chance to do it his way."

Earlier, Smotrich announced plans to encourage the emigration of Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza Strip, in an attempt to hinder any hopes of establishing a Palestinian state.

This aligns with his aggressive settlement policy, especially under his current right-wing government that adopts hardline policies in the occupied territories.

For Gazans, the issue of Hamas's weapons and military facilities remains open, as the movement's officials insist that any discussion on this matter must be among Palestinians themselves.

In contrast, Israel has not adhered to the ceasefire agreement that came into effect in October 2023, complicating the situation further.

Regarding the occupation plans, Smotrich said: "In the end, we will occupy Gaza and establish a Jewish settlement there."

This statement reflects the increasing Israeli ambitions to strengthen its presence in the Gaza Strip, which remains a major point of tension in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Smotrich's statements come at a sensitive time, as settlement activities continue at an accelerated pace in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, amid growing Palestinian protests and international condemnation of Israeli actions.

* Israeli Threats Come at a Sensitive Time:

This escalation comes at a sensitive time, more than a year after the Gaza War in October 2023, which left thousands of casualties and destruction in the territory.

Despite the truce, military operations continue in the Palestinian territories, amid increasing regional and international pressure on Israel.