Several members of the Israeli government participated in a conference organized by the right-wing Nahala organization, advocating for the resettlement of the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank. The conference, called “Settlement Brings Security and Victory,” urged the construction of new Jewish settlements in the Palestinian territories. The politicians and activists gathered in occupied East Jerusalem amid international pressure on Israel to confirm its commitment to Palestinian statehood.
Israel withdrew its military and settlers from the Gaza Strip in 2005 after a 38-year occupation. However, there is ongoing debate over who will govern the enclave after the current war with Hamas ends. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed that Israel does not plan to establish a permanent presence there but asserts that Israel will maintain security control indefinitely.
Israel’s international partners, led by the United States, have emphasized the need for a two-state solution to ensure security for both sides. However, Netanyahu, facing political pressure, has been resistant and has not presented a clear plan for the future.
According to Israel’s Channel 12, 12 ministers from Netanyahu’s Likud party attended the conference. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, both far-right coalition partners, reiterated calls to remove Palestinians from Gaza. They criticized the government’s decision to evacuate Jewish settlements in Gaza in the past, arguing that settlements are essential for security.
The conference received condemnation from some Israeli politicians, expressing concern that it could deepen divisions at a time when Israeli
