Smotrich Claims Ignorance of Gaza Agreement's Full Implications During Security Cabinet Debate

During a Security Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Israeli ministers discussed the decision to deploy an international stabilization force in the Gaza Strip as part of President Trump's 21-point plan. The decision was approved by the cabinet, including Religious Zionism ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Strook, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposing it.

At the start of the discussion, the Government Secretary explained that the Americans promoted the plan, seeking a ceasefire and cessation of targeted killings alongside the introduction of the international force. Strook, who voted in favor, criticized the decision by stating that immunity had already been granted to the force two weeks prior. In response, Minister Zeev Elkin pointed out that Strook had approved the immunity and that Smotrich also voted in favor, emphasizing that once immunity is granted, the force can operate freely.

The Government Secretary clarified that the agreement had not yet been signed. Smotrich, who called for a renewed discussion on the agreement, insisted that he was unaware of the full implications of the deal. Elkin challenged him, saying the details were available, to which Smotrich replied that the document stated Hamas would disarm. The exchange highlighted internal disagreements and confusion over the terms and consequences of the international force deployment in Gaza.