Hamas Slams Smotrich Over Hebron Move, Warns of Unprecedented Escalation

Hamas responded to Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s announcement that he is canceling the Hebron agreements and returning planning powers to Israel. The movement warned that the step amounts to an “unprecedented political and practical escalation” and said it is an attempt to “entrench the occupation and deepen its control.”

In its statement, Hamas described the measures as a “colonial project” aimed at imposing sovereignty over the West Bank and accelerating annexation. The group said the move was part of a broader effort to expand Israeli control on the ground.

Hamas also called on the international community and the United Nations to “assume their responsibilities and act urgently to stop the occupation’s policy.” The response came directly after Smotrich’s declaration, which focused on Hebron and planning authority in the occupied West Bank.