Smotrich calls for escalation after Hamas rejects ceasefire proposal

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded Thursday to Hamas’ rejection of Israel’s ceasefire offer by urging a full military escalation in Gaza.

“Israel will not surrender to Hamas and will not end the war without total victory,” he said in a statement. Smotrich called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “open the gates of hell” and intensify operations to include the full conquest of Gaza, the destruction of Hamas and the implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to relocate Gazans for rehabilitation in other countries. “Mr. Prime Minister, go ahead — give the order,” he said.