Israeli minister says Hamas must leave Gaza, hand over weapons

(CLO) Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced on Monday that Hamas gunmen must give up their weapons and leave the Gaza Strip.

Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting to discuss the next phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Mr Smotrich stressed that he would ask ministers to vote on US President Donald Trump's plan.

Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Photo: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90

He also affirmed that Israel must "give a clear ultimatum" to Hamas: immediately release all hostages, leave Gaza for other countries and lay down weapons.

“If Hamas rejects this ultimatum, Israel will open the gates of hell,” Mr. Smotrich said, repeating a phrase previously used by Mr. Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Mr Smotrich, who has been strongly opposed to a halt to the fighting, has threatened to leave Mr Netanyahu's governing coalition if fighting does not resume after the first phase of the ceasefire ends.

Mr Trump's plan has sparked global outrage over its proposal to resettle Palestinians in countries such as Egypt and Jordan, and place Gaza under US control.

Mr. Smotrich stressed that Israel must conquer the entire Gaza territory to ensure long-term security. He declared that “either we destroy Hamas” or “Hamas will destroy us.”

Israeli media reported that the security cabinet met on Monday evening to discuss the second phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19.

According to the United Nations, after more than 15 months of war, Gaza has been severely devastated: 69% of buildings were destroyed or damaged, almost the entire population was homeless, and famine was widespread.

Since the initial ceasefire took effect, 19 Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas, in exchange for the release of more than 1,100 Palestinian prisoners.

Of the 251 hostages seized by Hamas on October 7, 2023, 70 remain in Gaza, of whom 35 have been confirmed dead by the Israeli military.

Cao Phong (according to AJ, CNBC, CNA)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/bo-truong-israel-noi-hamas-phai-roi-khoi-gaza-giao-nop-vu-khi-post334981.html