In a recent statement, Finance Minister Bethsarel Smotrich rejected claims that he had suggested that destroying Hamas should take priority over efforts to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by the extremist group. Ta.
The minister made his position clear at the Jerusalem conference, stressing that he was simply echoing the sentiments of the majority of Israelis.
Contrary to reports that he downplayed the importance of hostage negotiations, Smotrich emphasized that he recognized the importance of the issue. He reiterated his position that while the hostage situation remains critical, the urgent need to address the Hamas threat should not be overshadowed. He said his comments were intended to reflect the sentiments of many Israelis who prioritize dismantling Hamas as their primary objective.
“The next deal should be better for us in terms of hostage-to-terrorist ratio and days of rest per hostage, and certainly not infinitely worse than the last one,” Smotrich declared. and emphasized its determination to secure a favorable deal. The terms of any negotiation.
Despite his claims to be representative of popular views, the polls paint a more nuanced picture. The results of a survey by the Jewish Institute for People's Policy show a split in public opinion, with 40% of Israelis prioritizing the eradication of Hamas, 32% supporting the release of the hostages, and 28% expressing no strong preference. Similarly, a poll by the Israel Democracy Institute showed that slightly more people (51%) supported prioritizing the hostage crisis.
Mr. Smotrich's remarks come at the latest as efforts continue to navigate a complex security environment, with tensions rising due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas and an urgent need to ensure the safe return of Israeli hostages. It was done inside.
