Report: Smotrich to Propose Linking Ceasefire Talks to U.S. Approval for Rafah Action

By Yoni Weiss

Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich reportedly wants Israel to link ceasefire talks with U.S. approval for military operations in Rafah, as part of two proposals he is set to present next week in a Diplomatic-Security Cabinet meeting, Yisrael Hayom reported.

The meeting, which Smotrich demanded, will cover ongoing discussions concerning the release of hostages and the current situation in Gaza.

Smotrichs’ first proposal aims to secure a commitment from the United States to support Israel’s resumption of military action following a six-week ceasefire, particularly focusing on actions in Rafah. This proposal suggests making American support a prerequisite for finalizing any agreement.

The second proposal seeks to ensure that any concessions made by Israel in the ongoing negotiations in Cairo do not allow for unrestricted movement of residents from southern to northern areas of the Gaza Strip. Such movement could potentially enable Hamas to regroup and maintain its military capabilities.