Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich delivered remarks on Monday at a conference in Jerusalem, outlining Israel's strategy in Gaza, addressing the hostage situation, detailing support for reservists, discussing ultra-Orthodox conscription, and commenting on population relocation from Gaza. Smotrich emphasized that Israel has no intention of withdrawing from territories captured by the IDF, even as part of a hostage release agreement, stating, "We are conquering Gaza to stay – there will be no more temporary maneuvering."
"It's time to stop fearing the word occupation," Smotrich said, "We are defeating Hamas – we will not surrender, they will surrender." He described the military operation as a deep and irreversible maneuver, adding, "We are finally taking control of all humanitarian aid, preventing it from becoming supplies for Hamas. We're separating Hamas from the population, clearing the [Gaza] Strip, returning the hostages, and defeating Hamas."
On the hostage issue, Smotrich stated firmly, "Once a military operation begins, there's no withdrawal from territories we've captured, not even in exchange for hostages. The only way to free the hostages is to defeat Hamas. Any withdrawal will bring back the next October 7." He warned, "Hostages are harmed every moment they are held by Hamas. There will be a very heavy price for Hamas in case of harm."
Smotrich highlighted the importance of supporting reservists, announcing an additional 3 billion shekels ($846 million) investment, complementing the 9 billion shekels ($2.54 billion) already allocated, "Including tax credits, preference in land tenders, daycare centers, student dormitories, university admissions. Those who serve – will receive much more."
Addressing humanitarian aid to Gaza, Smotrich explained, "This is the Archimedes point of the campaign. We've divided the area: south of the Morag axis, civilians will be transferred for protection, and humanitarian aid will be delivered there; north of Morag will become a sterile space, without supplies reaching the enemy."
Regarding potential Israeli sovereignty in Gaza, Smotrich said, "Once we conquer and stay, we can talk about sovereignty. But I didn't demand including this in the war objectives. First, we'll defeat Hamas."
On Iran, Smotrich was direct, "We will not allow Iran to have nuclear weapons – period. How? When? By what means? It's better to be silent about that. This is a historical and security commitment."
When questioned about ultra-Orthodox conscription, Smotrich maintained his position, "The way to recruit is not through hatred and division, but incentives, adaptations, and responsible leadership. There is a genuine desire in the ultra-Orthodox public to serve, while maintaining their way of life." He asserted, "There will be a conscription law, with a target of 50% recruitment within 7 years, accompanied by sanctions and enforcement. The ultra-Orthodox leadership will legitimize it, and the army will finally start recruiting."
Responding to questions about negotiations for financial compensation to the ultra-Orthodox community, Smotrich was unequivocal: "Lies and deception. There's no such thing. Over my dead body. There will be a conscription law, with a target of 50% recruitment within 7 years, accompanied by sanctions and enforcement. The ultra-Orthodox leadership will legitimize it, and the army will finally start recruiting."
Smotrich concluded with a statement about the right-wing camp, "I have a deep common denominator with the ultra-Orthodox public. We are allies in the national camp. I strive to fix what needs fixing – including the military issue, but always from a place of faith, responsibility, and Zionist partnership."
