Israeli Minister Calls for Gaza Evacuation, Annexation of Territories

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for the "voluntary emigration" of Gaza's population to Arab and Islamic countries, and for Israel to permanently annex areas it controls in Gaza and Lebanon. Smotrich made these remarks at the National Conservatism Conference (NATCON) in Jerusalem, where he discussed the Palestinian issue, the future of the war in Gaza, and Israeli-American relations.

Addressing the Palestinian national identity, Smotrich dismissed it as a "fantasy" that emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction to Zionism. He asserted that Palestinians cannot have national rights in what he termed "the land of Israel." Regarding civilian casualties in the war, he stated that the conflict does not become less "just or moral" due to civilian suffering, adding that Israel will continue efforts to minimize harm to those affected without compromising its objectives.

On the future of territories controlled by Israel, Smotrich advocated for a shift in the "military and political paradigm," urging the permanent imposition of Israeli sovereignty over current Israeli-controlled areas in Gaza and Lebanon, which he believes would deter future attacks. He also called for the end of the war in Gaza to include resolving the "1948 refugee problem" and resettling the Strip's residents in Arab and Islamic nations, deeming Gaza "unsustainable" in its current form.

Smotrich defended his proposal for "encouraging voluntary emigration" for Gazans wishing to leave conflict zones for Islamic countries, stating it is "not racism" and calling for a legal and respectful framework for voluntary departures. He also urged a move away from "dependency" in relations with the United States towards a partnership between two independent states, emphasizing Israel's military and economic self-sufficiency and its capacity to manage its own security and interests. He further called for strengthening ties between Israel and the conservative movement in the U.S. for strategic and security benefits.