'Do there what we did in Gaza': Smotrich calls for full-scale war in occupied West Bank

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has called for Israel to launch a full-scale war in the occupied West Bank, drawing a comparison to the actions taken during the conflict in Gaza. Speaking on Ynet’s 120 and One political podcast, Smotrich, the leader of the far-right Religious Zionism party, also reiterated his demand for dismantling the Palestinian Authority, which holds limited self-rule in parts of the West Bank.

The suggestion for a full-scale Israeli military operation comes as the country prepares for general elections scheduled for next month.

The call for aggression comes amid reports of increasing settler violence and movement restrictions throughout the West Bank. Israeli authorities recently ordered a comprehensive closure of crossings into the territory for the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that Israeli forces tightened restrictions around Ramallah, closing roads and entrances to several towns and villages, including Turmus Ayya, Aboud, Nabi Saleh, Atara, and Taybeh.

Additionally, military checkpoints were established at the entrances to Yabroud and Ein Sinyah, causing further disruptions for Palestinians.

Smotrich, who advocates for the expansion of illegal Israeli settlements and the extension of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank, defended his political platform as he prepares for the upcoming elections on October 27.