After the UN declarations: Smotrich and Strock demand clarification from Netanyahu

Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Strock have turned to Prime Minister Netanyahu demanding a public clarification following statements by senior officials of the UN "Peace Council." According to them, the presented plan contradicts previous understandings with Israel regarding the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, its reconstruction, the entry of foreign forces, and arms purchases.

Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Strock have turned to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanding a clear and unequivocal public clarification, following statements by senior officials of the UN "Peace Council." In their letter, the ministers claim that the presented plan contradicts previous understandings with Israel. According to them, the plan includes 66 projects for the reconstruction of the Strip totaling $2.45 billion, $885 million for security expenses, and the establishment of a base in Rafah for 5,000 soldiers of a multinational force (ISF), with an initial deployment of 500 soldiers. Additionally, $20 million was presented for arms purchases. The ministers warn that the demilitarization is supposed to be carried out gradually by zones, contrary to the understanding reached with the US administration that any reconstruction, entry of foreign forces, and withdrawal of the IDF will only occur after full demilitarization of the entire Strip. They note that the declaration does not align with the cabinet decision to allow only 200 ISF soldiers, and that Hamas is not disarming and continues to carry out attacks. The ministers oppose the plan for arms purchases and the reconstruction of the entire Strip, including areas adjacent to Israeli communities.