Israel’s Finance Minister Smotrich Calls Gaza a “Real Estate Bonanza,” Sparks Global Outrage

Israel’s far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich has ignited fresh controversy after declaring that the Gaza Strip could become a “real estate bonanza” once the war ends, revealing that discussions are underway with the United States about dividing up the territory. Speaking at an event in Tel Aviv, Smotrich described Gaza as a lucrative investment opportunity, stating, “We’ve done the demolition phase… Now we need to build.” He further claimed that “a business plan is on President Trump’s table,” referencing earlier remarks by former U.S. president Donald Trump who in February suggested that the U.S. could take “a long-term ownership position” in Gaza, envisioning it as the “Riviera of the Middle East.” The proposal, however, rests on the idea of forcibly displacing Palestinians from their land, a move that experts and international organizations have repeatedly condemned as a violation of international law. Critics argue that framing Gaza in terms of real estate development not only ignores the immense human suffering of its residents but also risks legitimizing policies of forced population transfer and territorial appropriation. The remarks have sparked outrage across the region and beyond, with Palestinian leaders and human rights groups warning that such rhetoric undermines prospects for peace while reinforcing patterns of dispossession and displacement. International law strictly prohibits the annexation or repurposing of occupied territory, and past proposals along these lines have drawn sharp criticism from the United Nations and global powers. While Smotrich’s comments reflect the ideology of Israel’s far-right factions, they also highlight the growing influence of settler-driven narratives in shaping post-war visions for Gaza. As the humanitarian crisis in the enclave deepens, the suggestion of turning it into a business venture is likely to fuel further condemnation and intensify calls for accountability.
Key Phrase: Bezalel Smotrich Gaza real estate bonanza US talks Trump plan
Meta Title: Smotrich Sparks Outrage by Calling Gaza a “Real Estate Bonanza”
Meta Description: Israel’s finance minister Bezalel Smotrich called Gaza a “real estate bonanza” and claimed talks with the U.S. and Trump over its future. Critics warn the plan violates international law.