America News Agency

Smotrich is the head of the Religious Zionism Party (HaTzionut HaDatit), one of the far-right parties in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition.

In an interview with Galay Israel radio, he stated that with Joe Biden leaving the White House and Donald Trump being elected president, Israel has a “golden opportunity” to solve the “Gaza issue” once and for all.

“To tell the truth, rescuing the hostages is not the most important thing. Of course, it is a very important goal, but if you want October 7 not to repeat itself, you must understand that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza,” he said.

He emphasized that Israel has the support of the Trump administration and that political opponents like former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and former IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi are no longer in the picture, clearing the way for a tougher policy against Hamas and Gaza.

Smotrich’s remarks drew criticism from families of the hostages. Their association said: “The families have one word this morning: shame. At least the minister states the bitter truth – that the government has deliberately decided to abandon the hostages.”

“Minister Smotrich, history will remember how you hardened your heart toward your captive brothers and decided not to save them. Some to death, others to disappearance,” the statement concluded.