Cabinet Approves Introduction of 'Peace Council' to Gaza

The security cabinet approved the introduction of the 'Peace Council' to Gaza. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir voted against, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich supported. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said it is an international plan that should not be destroyed. Minister Ze'ev Elkin recalled a previous decision to bring international forces in exchange for hostage release. Ben-Gvir argued that Hamas has not disarmed, so Israel is not obligated, and called for encouraging emigration. Minister Orit Strock expressed concern that establishing a new Gaza would be a disgrace forever.

The security cabinet approved today (Sunday) the introduction of the 'Peace Council' to Gaza. The decision was made amid disagreements among ministers: National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir voted against, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich supported. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said it is an international plan that should not be destroyed, and expressed doubt about its success. Minister for the Rehabilitation of the North and South Ze'ev Elkin recalled that the decision to bring international forces was already made in the past, in exchange for hostage release. Ben-Gvir argued that Hamas has not fulfilled its commitment to disarm the Strip, so Israel is not obligated, and called for encouraging emigration from Gaza. Minister Orit Strock noted that international consensus is a positive thing, but expressed concern that establishing a new Gaza would be a disgrace forever given the other side's failure to meet commitments.