"Political illusions": Smotrich slams Netanyahu for approving Trump ceasefire plan in Gaza

'Israeli' Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued scathing criticism on Monday of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to approve a US-backed ceasefire plan for Gaza, calling it a dangerous return to “Oslo-style illusions."

In a lengthy post on X, Smotrich accused 'Israel’s' leadership of discarding the lessons of October 7 and of surrendering hard-won battlefield gains to foreign powers and “glittering diplomatic ceremonies.” He warned that Netanyahu’s acceptance of Donald Trump’s framework, centered on a ceasefire, the creation of a Palestinian police force trained by Egypt and Jordan, and renewed international involvement, amounted to a “historic missed opportunity” to permanently sever ties with the Oslo peace process.

He wrote, “A resounding diplomatic failure… and in my estimation, it will also end in tears. Our children will be forced to fight in Gaza again.”

Smotrich described Netanyahu’s move as “a tragedy of leadership fleeing from the truth,” arguing that it traded “tangible achievements on the ground for political illusions.” He suggested the deal risked emboldening Hamas and undermining 'Israel’s' long-term security, and criticized what he called the “destructive hostage campaign” and “military foot-dragging” that weakened 'Israel’s' position.

The finance minister concluded by urging caution despite the widespread relief sparked by Netanyahu’s decision, “The celebrations since yesterday are simply absurd.”