Smotrich's Broken Faith

The day saw the Security Cabinet's approval of the Gaza conquest plan, despite early warnings from security chiefs who stressed hostage risks. International diplomatic efforts by the US and Qatar intensified in the morning, focusing on preventing full Israeli occupation and securing a hostage deal, with reports highlighting President Trump's direct involvement. As the day progressed, pressure mounted from hostage families, who called for a national economic shutdown and issued stark warnings to Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding his responsibility for captives' lives during the takeover. The day culminated with Finance Minister Smotrich's public declaration of having "lost faith" in Netanyahu's capacity or will to achieve a decisive Gaza victory, criticizing the cabinet's approved operation as "immoral foolishness" intended only for pressure, not true success or hostage return. This signaled a significant internal political challenge.