Smotrich withdraws faith in Netanyahu Gaza strategy

Finance minister Bezalel Smotrich questions the government’s Gaza policy and calls for a decisive military victory.

Smotrich withdraws faith in Netanyahu Gaza strategy

Finance minister Bezalel Smotrich publicly questions Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to lead a Gaza war to a decisive victory. In a statement issued on Saturday, Smotrich criticizes recent government moves in Gaza and urges a clear and uncompromising plan aimed at victory. The remarks come after a Cabinet meeting in which Smotrich opposed the current approach and stressed the need for a stronger strategy.

Smotrich says that decisions such as releasing convicted terrorists and territorial withdrawals have moved the government away from the path to victory. He notes that he previously backed decisions for the sake of national unity, but now he questions whether Netanyahu can or wants to lead the IDF to a decisive result. The move has drawn support and concern from other security officials and Cabinet members who oppose the current plan for different reasons. The military plan to seize Gaza City and evacuate civilians by October 7 has raised fears about hostage safety and the risk of escalation.

The cabinet has seen debate over whether to pursue temporary deals with Hamas or to push for a full scale operation. Smotrich has urged the prime minister to reconvene the cabinet and adopt a no pause, no partial deal stance. He also envisions broader moves, including annexation proposals for parts of Gaza, which have sparked controversy inside and outside the government.

Smotrich presents a sharp challenge to Netanyahu at a moment when the coalition is already fragile. His push for a no pause strategy signals a potential realignment within the right wing bloc and increases pressure on a prime minister who has sought to balance military aims with political calculations. The clash highlights a deeper split over whether Israel should seek a quick military victory or accept extended conflict, a choice with clear implications for public support, regional stability, and diplomatic relations. If Smotrich pushes further, the government could face renewed calls for concessions or even leadership recalibration at a critical time for Israeli security. The discussion over annexation and voluntary emigration adds a high risk dimension, risking diplomatic backlash and internal controversy while potentially reshaping the future map of the region.

Highlights

The government faces a test of resolve as voices push for a clearer path to victory