Finance Minister Smotrich Ready to Establish Three New Settlements in Northern Gaza Immediately

Israeli Finance Minister and Defense Ministry official Bezalel Smotrich announced on Monday that the settlement administration under his leadership has completed preparatory work to establish three new Jewish settlements in the northern perimeter of the Gaza Strip. He stated that the plans are ready to be implemented immediately upon receiving approval from the Prime Minister. Smotrich made the announcement following a meeting with Alon Davidi, the mayor of Sderot, a city near Gaza.

Smotrich emphasized the strategic importance of these settlements as a security belt to protect Sderot and surrounding communities. He called on the Prime Minister to give the green light to "complete the mission and restore real security to the residents of the south." He also addressed ongoing military operations in Gaza, noting that the Israel Defense Forces currently control nearly 70% of the Gaza Strip and must finish conquering the remaining areas held by Hamas.

Mayor Alon Davidi expressed gratitude for Smotrich's leadership during the war and his efforts to ensure the security of the Gaza envelope communities. Davidi affirmed the necessity of continuing the fight until the threat to Sderot and nearby areas is eliminated, stating this is the minimum required for residents to live securely.

The initiative reflects a broader Israeli strategy to solidify control and security around Gaza by establishing Jewish settlements, contingent on political approval from the highest levels of government.