Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Sunday outlined a hardline vision for Israel’s ongoing war efforts, urging territorial expansion and full control over Gaza during remarks delivered at a ceremony marking the reopening of Sa-Nur in northern Samaria.

Addressing critics on the left, Smotrich argued that their approach reflects a pattern of conceding gains, saying: “Those criticizing us from the left mean the final political step they are accustomed to – one of surrender and defeat that erases the military achievements.. We must be advancing a political step of victory that cements the military achievements and expands the state’s borders as defensible boundaries.”

Emphasizing his position further, he added: “Instead of handing territory to the enemy – take territory from the enemy.”

Turning to the situation in Gaza, Smotrich urged immediate action, calling on Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu to escalate the campaign. “I call on the prime minister to order the IDF to prepare immediately for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip, to establish Israeli control over all the territory of the Strip, and to establish Israeli settlement in it. Without settlement, there will be no security.”

He continued by invoking a broader historical argument, stating: “For a hundred years it has been proven – where the plow passes, the border and security follow. The war must end in an expansion of the State of Israel’s borders.”

The event also marked a return to Sa-Nur, as 16 Israeli families moved into temporary housing at the site. Among those present was Samaria regional leader Yossi Dagan, who had been removed from the settlement in 2005. Speaking at the gathering, he described the development as “a significant step – personally, nationally, and emotionally.”

Defense Minister Israel Katz also addressed attendees, focusing on military operations along Israel’s northern border. He said Israeli forces are currently operating “to a depth of 10 kilometers inside Lebanese territory in order to prevent anti-tank fire and raids on northern communities. We instructed the IDF to act with full force, from the ground and from the air, even during the ceasefire.”

Katz outlined Israel’s strategic objective in the north, saying: “The supreme goal is to disarm Hezbollah and remove the threat to the northern communities.” He added a warning that “if the government of Lebanon continues to fail to meet its commitments – the IDF will do so. We promised security to the residents of the north.”

Reflecting personally, Katz noted: “As a paratrooper, Sa-Nur base was the place where I began my path in the IDF. This is an important closing of a circle for me.”

He also announced a major investment in military infrastructure, revealing plans for a NIS 350 million initiative to relocate and strengthen IDF bases across Judea and Samaria, describing it as part of a broader effort to bolster Israel’s long-term security.

{Matzav.com}