IDF preparing plans for renewed fighting in Gaza Strip, Smotrich tells JNS

(JNS) — The Israel Defense Forces is preparing plans for “a renewed occupation of Gaza and the dismantling of Hamas,” Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a member of Jerusalem’s Security Cabinet, told JNS on Monday.

“We will be ready,” Smotrich said, speaking with JNS following a faction meeting of his Religious Zionism Party at the Knesset. “Now we have no hostages there and there are far fewer restrictions: fast, sharp, resolute,” he said.

President Donald Trump “often used the word ‘violent,’ so I like that word,” Smotrich continued. “It will be very violent, forceful and quick.”

Smo...