The Israeli Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich, declared his categorical rejection of any normalization agreement with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that includes concessions to the Palestinians or leads to the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Rejection of concessions for normalization

In his statements, Smotrich said: “We support peace with Arab countries, but it must be based on truth, not on lies that promote Arab rights in the land of Israel.”

He added: “No agreement with Saudi Arabia can be accompanied by granting the Palestinian Authority or Arabs any hope of establishing a Palestinian state.”

He continued: “No one should think that after October 7, the Arabs will be rewarded with a state.”

The position of the new American administration towards Israel

Smotrich pointed to a “positive change” in the position of the new American administration towards Israel, expressing his confidence that former President Donald Trump will continue to support Israel and enhance its security and standing if he wins the upcoming elections.

Continuation of military operations in Gaza

Regarding the situation in Gaza, Smotrich said:

“We cannot ignore the difficult scenes there and Hamas's display of its power and control over the sector.”

He confirmed that military operations will continue until Israeli objectives are fully achieved:

“The field situation confirms the necessity of continuing the military campaign until Hamas is completely eliminated, and we are determined to achieve that.”

Operations in the West Bank

The Israeli minister indicated that the “Iron Wall” operation in the West Bank constitutes a “good start,” commending the role of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in its implementation, describing him as “infusing a new and important spirit into military operations.”

Summary:

• Israel rejects any normalization with Saudi Arabia that includes concessions to the Palestinians.

• Smotrich relies on Trump's victory to strengthen support for Israel.

• Military operations in Gaza and the West Bank continue to achieve Israel's security objectives.