Israeli Finance Minister Calls Palestinian State an Existential Threat

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has declared that the establishment of a Palestinian state poses an existential threat to Israel. He emphasized the need to strengthen and expand Israeli settlements in the West Bank, stating that the primary goal of this policy is to definitively end the idea of a Palestinian state.

Smotrich made these remarks amidst ongoing international discussions regarding the status of disputed territories, according to The Times of Israel. He asserted that the Israeli government's actions, including the development of dozens of new settlements and farms, are conducted officially, in close cooperation with the army, and with all necessary permits.

The minister acknowledged that these steps face strong opposition both domestically and internationally. He suggested that accusations against settlers by critics are intended to challenge the legality and scope of the settlement expansion process.

Furthermore, Smotrich expressed concern over unilateral recognitions of Palestinian statehood by countries such as the United Kingdom and France. He also indicated that future international support might depend on the United States' position following the current U.S. administration's term.

Addressing security concerns, Smotrich stated that the situation in the West Bank is under control. He compared the per capita homicide rates there to those in American cities, claiming that the level of safety for residents is comparable to that in major metropolises.