Smotrich Says 'NO'
Smotrich's 'Six Red Lines': A Threat to Netanyahu Over Trump's Peace Plan
Finance Minister Smotrich issues six non-negotiable demands ahead of Netanyahu-Trump meeting, rejecting Palestinian state and demanding complete Hamas elimination from Gaza.
As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares for a critical meeting with US President Donald Trump today, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key right-wing coalition partner, has issued a series of uncompromising demands, setting rigid "red lines" for any potential post-war agreement on Gaza.
Smotrich's demands, presented on the backdrop of US pressure for a diplomatic solution, underscore the internal political tightrope Netanyahu must walk, balancing international expectations against the security and ideological demands of his far-right base.
The Finance Minister made it clear that the National Religious party/Religious Zionism will not compromise on Israel's security nor agree to political concessions. Smotrich stated firmly,
“Israel's security is not achieved through political agreements that aren't worth the paper they are written on, but through action and holding territory.”
The Six Red Lines
Smotrich outlined six non-negotiable points that he insists must guide Israel's policy on Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict:
Focus on Judea and Samaria
Smotrich also emphasized that a right-wing government, in partnership with the Trump administration, must utilize this "historic opportunity" to remove the idea of dividing the land entirely from the agenda and "strengthen Israeli sovereignty" in Judea and Samaria.
The minister's declarations arrive at a crucial juncture, as Netanyahu attempts to navigate expectations from the US, which is reportedly pushing for practical solutions that include a hostage release and a framework for partial normalization. Smotrich's public warning is a direct caution against any step, including potential US-led initiatives that might lead to recognition of the Palestinian Authority or the establishment of a "Palestinian state".