• Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested that Palestinians should leave Gaza.
  • He envisions a significant reduction of the Palestinian population in Gaza, advocating for Jewish settlers’ return.
  • Smotrich’s statements have drawn reactions from various parties, including Hamas, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and several Israeli politicians, some expressing opposition.
  • There are contrasting reports on whether the Israeli government officially supports Smotrich’s views.

Why is this important?

  • Smotrich’s remarks indicate a controversial approach that deviates from international norms regarding population transfer and could escalate regional tensions.
  • If acted upon, the proposal could impact the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, humanitarian conditions, and international relations.

Consensus:

  • Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the emigration of Palestinians from Gaza.
  • Smotrich suggested that Israel should control Gaza and that a reduced Palestinian population would change the discourse about Gaza.
  • There is notable political and public opposition to the idea of resettling settlers in Gaza.
  • The US and other countries believe Gaza should be governed by Palestinians.

Contested claims:

  • On Smotrich’s exclusion from war cabinet discussions:
  • Al Jazeera and Alhurra indicate he was excluded.
  • Israel Hayom does not mention exclusion but critiques Smotrich’s harmful wartime politics.
  • On the official Israeli government policy:
  • Al Jazeera reports conflict with the government’s position that Palestinians will return to homes post-war.
  • France TV Info and Haaretz imply support from Likud members and PM Netanyahu for population reduction concepts.

Claims made by a single publication:

  • France TV Info mentioned an Israeli minister justifying a war of purported moral equivalence. (France TV Info)
  • Israel Hayom criticized Smotrich’s remarks as damaging to Israel. (Israel Hayom)
  • Alhurra included the term “Nakba” and referenced the historical context of 1948 Palestinian displacement. (Alhurra)