Mon Feb 17 19:33:44 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Minister Demands Hamas Surrender, Threatens “Gates of Hell”
**Jerusalem** – Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas on Monday, demanding the militant group surrender its weapons, leave Gaza, and release all remaining hostages. Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting to discuss the next phase of the ceasefire, Smotrich threatened a renewed Israeli offensive, vowing to open the “gates of hell” if Hamas refuses.
Smotrich’s hardline stance aligns with his opposition to the current truce, which began on January 19th. He has even threatened to leave the ruling coalition if the war isn’t resumed. He endorsed a controversial plan, reportedly similar to one proposed by former US President Donald Trump, which would involve resettling Palestinians outside of Gaza. This plan has drawn widespread international condemnation.
Smotrich’s proposed “phase two” involves a significant escalation. He called for Israel to seize 10% of Gaza’s territory, impose Israeli law, and halt all humanitarian aid upon resumption of hostilities. He further stated that any departure of Gazan residents would be one-way, with no possibility of return. “The loss of territory is the only heavy price our enemies understand,” he declared.
The current ceasefire followed more than 15 months of conflict that, according to the UN, destroyed or damaged over 69% of Gaza’s buildings, displaced nearly its entire population, and caused widespread hunger. While 19 Israeli hostages have been released, 70 remain in Gaza, according to Israeli military reports. The fate of these hostages, along with Smotrich’s uncompromising demands, casts a long shadow over the fragile peace. The Israeli security cabinet met Monday evening to discuss the next steps, fueling concerns about a renewed and potentially even more devastating conflict.
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