Netanyahu to propose Gaza annexation plan to appease Smotrich

"Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to propose a plan to annex parts of Gaza in a bid to prevent Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich from pulling his Religious party out of the government, Haaretz reported Monday.

According to the report, the plan would see "Israel" issue a short ultimatum to Hamas, offering a few days to agree to a ceasefire. If Hamas refuses, "Israel" would then begin implementing the annexation of specific areas within Gaza.

The proposal is reportedly intended to appease far-right coalition members following Netanyahu’s controversial decision to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, a move opposed by Smotrich’s party.

The annexation plan is expected to be presented to Israel’s security cabinet in the coming days.