From the Liveblog of
Monday, February 23, 2026
Smotrich: Hamas will soon be given ultimatum to disarm, or IDF will go in
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Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich tells Kan news that “It is estimated that in the coming days, Hamas will be given an ultimatum to disarm and fully demilitarize Gaza.”
Smotrich indicates this ultimatum will be made by Washington. “We have not given up on destroying Hamas. We are giving President [Trump] a chance to do it in his own way.”
He adds that “if [Hamas] does not comply, the IDF will receive international legitimacy and American backing to do it itself. The IDF is already preparing for this and making plans. On the political level, we have held several discussions to fine-tune these plans.”
“There are currently two or three alternatives we are examining to determine which is the most appropriate. One thing is certain: The IDF will enter and conquer Gaza if Hamas does not disarm.”
The Times of Israel Community.