Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for Israel to expand its borders to include territories in Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, articulating the ‘Greater Israel’ ambition publically. This perspective is prominent among far-right factions within the Israeli government, especially against the backdrop of ongoing violence in Gaza, resulting in significant civilian casualties and displacement. As Israeli leaders express these ambitions, international condemnation continues to rise amidst the humanitarian crisis.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has openly called for the expansion of Israel’s borders to encompass areas beyond the Jordan River, including significant territories in Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq. This commentary reflects the ambitions of a segment of the Israeli government that is pursuing what is termed the ‘Greater Israel’ project, as articulated during an interview for the Arte Reportage documentary, ‘Israel: Extremists in Power.’ During the interview, Smotrich expressed his vision for a Jewish state governed by Jewish values, stating, “I want a Jewish state… that operates according to the values of the Jewish people.” When prompted about the possibility of expanding Israel’s borders further, Smotrich responded, “Okay, bit by bit,” and underscored that the future of Jerusalem, in his perspective, involves extending its reach to Damascus. The documentary’s narrator elaborated on Smotrich’s radical vision, pointing out its implications include not only Palestinian territories but also areas in multiple neighboring countries. Many leaders within Israel’s far-right faction have similarly expressed their support for the ‘Greater Israel’ concept, particularly in light of the ongoing violence following the recent escalation in Gaza since October 7, 2023. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also contributed to this discourse, showcasing maps during a United Nations General Assembly meeting that incorporate Gaza and the West Bank as undeniably part of Israel. The international community has criticized these ambitions against the backdrop of a brutal military offensive in Gaza that has resulted in substantial civilian casualties and displacement. Since the onset of the current conflict, reports indicate a tragic toll on Palestinian lives, with tens of thousands reportedly killed and a severe humanitarian crisis developing. The ongoing military operations have led to a significant number of Palestinians being displaced, amidst efforts to seek refuge from violence. Even as global condemnation mounts against Israel’s actions, including ongoing proceedings at the International Court of Justice concerning allegations of genocide against Palestinians, the aspirations for a ‘Greater Israel’ persist among certain Israeli officials.
The term ‘Greater Israel’ refers to a concept of Israeli territorial expansion that advocates for the inclusion of areas traditionally considered part of the biblical land of Israel, extending into regions currently recognized as Palestinian territories and neighboring countries. This ideology has gained prominence among the far-right sections of the Israeli political spectrum, particularly following recent escalations of violence in Gaza. The conflict has reignited discussions on territorial claims as Israeli leadership conveys intentions to redefine national borders. Since the onset of intensified military actions in Gaza commencing on October 7, 2023, there has been an uptick in rhetoric surrounding these territorial ambitions, compounded by significant casualties and displacement within Palestinian communities.
In summary, the statements from Bezalel Smotrich and related governmental rhetoric reveal a growing aspiration among certain Israeli leaders for territorial expansion under the ‘Greater Israel’ concept, despite the profound and tragic humanitarian consequences currently unfolding in Gaza. The ongoing military offensives have led to severe casualties and a massive displacement crisis, exacerbating international scrutiny and condemnation against Israel’s actions. As these discussions continue amidst the conflict, the implications for peace and stability in the region remain grave and concerning. The ambitions of Israeli officials reflect a contentious narrative that intertwines with historical grievances and modern political realities, posing challenges to any potential resolution between Israeli and Palestinian aspirations for sovereignty and coexistence.
Original Source: www.palestinechronicle.com
