This Monday, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich signed a directive to seize NIS 320 million (approximately $90 million) in Palestinian tax funds. These funds are intended to be repurposed for compensating Israeli families affected by the ongoing conflict. Smotrich justified the action, stating that there was no more moral and rightful use of the funds than preventing the Palestinian Authority (PA) from financing terrorism. He emphasized that the move was a crucial part of Israel’s national effort to combat terrorism and the PA’s support of it.
This decision followed an earlier similar action by Smotrich in August, when he had confiscated NIS 100 million (around $27 million) from the PA, accusing it of financing terrorist activities. The Israeli government has consistently taken steps to restrict Palestinian Authority funding, framing it as part of a broader strategy against terrorism.
Meanwhile, Israel’s security cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday to evaluate the next steps in the ongoing Gaza ceasefire negotiations. The second phase of the truce, if agreed upon, would involve the release of Palestinian captives held by Hamas, with Israel reciprocating by freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, Israeli military forces are expected to withdraw completely from Gaza, and a lasting ceasefire could be established.
However, key figures within the Israeli government, including Smotrich and other Jewish nationalist ministers, have expressed opposition to this ceasefire plan. They have threatened to leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government if the cessation of hostilities continues and if the war does not resume. Smotrich, in particular, has been vocal about his stance against peace talks and negotiations with the Palestinians.
Welcoming Trump’s Gaza plan
In a controversial development, Smotrich made a significant announcement on Saturday regarding former US President Donald Trump’s plan to remove Palestinians from Gaza. According to Smotrich, the plan to displace Palestinians will commence in the coming weeks. He described the operation as gradual at first but said it would accelerate over time. Smotrich revealed that preparations for the displacement are already underway, with Israeli teams working alongside US teams on the logistics and coordination of the effort.
The plan, which envisions the forced expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza, has been met with staunch opposition from Palestinian leaders and international human rights organizations. Palestinians have categorically rejected the idea of being forcibly removed from their homes, viewing it as a continuation of Israel’s policies of displacement. International human rights groups have condemned the proposal, asserting that it would violate international law, particularly the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forced removal of people from their homes.
In light of these developments, the situation remains tense, with both sides entrenched in their positions. As the Israeli government pursues measures to secure its national interests, including the seizure of Palestinian tax funds and the pursuit of more aggressive policies regarding Gaza, the broader implications for peace in the region continue to be uncertain. The proposed displacement plan, coupled with ongoing military actions, is likely to fuel further controversy and international debate.
