Israeli Finance Minister Calls for Sovereignty in Gaza, Lebanon and Emigration

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich proposed a new political vision for ending the war and the day after, advocating for permanent Israeli sovereignty over areas currently held in Gaza and Lebanon. Speaking at the National Conservatism Conference (NATCON) in Jerusalem on Tuesday, Smotrich presented a strategy that departs from the notion that wars do not end with border changes, suggesting Israel should permanently retain territories captured during conflict.

He also called for creating a "real, legal, and respectful" option for voluntary emigration of Gaza residents to Arab and Muslim countries, which he sees as a natural destination due to shared language, religion, and culture. Smotrich argued that encouraging such migration is not racism, but rather a solution for those wishing to leave conflict zones, and that Arab nations should bear responsibility for refugees from the region. He asserted that Palestinian nationalism is a fabricated concept and that personal suffering of civilians does not determine the morality of a war, though Israel would continue efforts to minimize harm without compromising war aims.

Smotrich further addressed Israel's relationship with the United States, urging a shift from dependence to a partnership between two independent nations. He emphasized Israel's need to increase its self-reliance in defense and economy, stating that a strong, independent Israel is a more valuable ally. He also called for deepening ties between Israel and the conservative-nationalist movement in the U.S., highlighting mutual interests in strengthening connections with the American government, conservative circles, and the public.

The NATCON conference, held at the International Convention Center in Jerusalem, is co-hosted by the Herzl Institute and the Edmund Burke Foundation from Washington.