Heritage Minister Eliyahu Defends Controversial Remarks on Gaza, Draft Law

Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu discussed his controversial statements regarding a potential nuclear strike on Gaza and the draft law during a tour in the West Bank, as part of a project interviewing public figures about their personal lives. Eliyahu, who led a tour group at a spring in the West Bank, stated that there are currently approximately 800,000 Jews living in the area.

Addressing the international outcry over his past remarks about using a nuclear bomb in Gaza, Eliyahu claimed his words were taken out of context and caused "international damage." He also clarified his stance on the draft law, explaining that his opposition stemmed from personal experiences facing terrorists and not wanting to be forced into such situations by law.

Eliyahu also spoke about his interactions with families of hostages, noting their strong desire for a deal and his difficult decision to vote against it, which he knew could strain his relationships with them. He expressed a desire to reform the education system to allow parents more freedom in how they raise their children.

During the tour, Eliyahu also highlighted the development potential of the West Bank region, recommending investment in local real estate and predicting it would become a "paradise."