Smotrich says “To eliminate the idea of an Arab terror state”
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- ‘Israeli’ Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich calls to “eliminate the idea of an Arab terror state.”
- Smotrich advocates encouraging Palestinian migration from Gaza Strip and West Bank.
‘Israeli’ Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich sparked controversy on February 18, 2026, with a speech at a Religious Zionism Party event calling for the end of the Palestinian state concept. He described his main goal as “To complete the revolution… to eliminate the idea of an Arab terror state.”
Smotrich criticized the Oslo Accords, calling for them to be “finally officially and practically canceled,” and emphasized the expansion of ‘Israeli’ sovereignty, saying he wants “to embark on the path of sovereignty.”
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Addressing the status of Palestinians in Gaza Strip and the West Bank, Smotrich said his plan includes “encouraging migration from both Gaza and Judea and Samaria,” adding, “There is absolutely no other solution, it’s that simple. I am saying this in an unequivocal way.”
The speech drew immediate condemnation from Palestinian officials and human rights groups, who warned it could signal endorsement of ethnic displacement. Supporters within his party described the address as a firm statement of ‘Israeli’ authority.
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Experts note that any attempt to carry out such policies would face significant legal, logistical, and diplomatic challenges and could heighten regional tensions.
