Israeli Minister Smotrich Calls Gaza a ‘Real Estate Bonanza’ Amidst Controversy
Israel’s far-right Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has sparked controversy by describing the Gaza Strip as a ‘real estate bonanza,’ highlighting plans for its development and profit.
GazaReal EstateBezalel SmotrichIsraelPalestinianReal EstateSep 20, 2025
Speaking at a real estate conference in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, September 18, Smotrich revealed that Israel is in discussions with the United States (US) about dividing and developing the war-torn territory into a profitable venture.
“There’s a business plan — listen to me carefully — there’s a business plan set by the most professional people there is and it’s on President Trump’s table,” Smotrich stated. “This thing can turn into a real estate bonanza. I’m not kidding; it pays off.”
He went on to explain that Israel had already completed the “demolition phase” in Gaza, referring to the destruction of existing infrastructure, and that the cost of reconstruction would be significantly lower.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry quickly condemned Smotrich’s statements, labeling them a sign of “moral and political bankruptcy.” The Ministry criticized Israel for continuing its siege and military operations, which have caused significant humanitarian suffering in Gaza. They also urged the international community to intervene to protect Palestinian civilians and halt Israeli actions in the region.
Smotrich’s comments follow similar remarks made by Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s National Security Minister, who on Monday, September 15, announced plans to build a “wonderful neighborhood” for Israeli police officers in Gaza following the conclusion of Israel’s current military operations.
The idea of turning Gaza into a lucrative development project aligns with remarks made earlier this year by Donald Trump, the US President, who described the possibility of a US takeover of Gaza, suggesting it could be transformed into a “Riviera of the Middle East.” Reports also revealed a plan circulated within the Trump administration that proposed placing Gaza under US control for at least ten years, with the aim of turning it into a major tourist and technology hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Bezalel Smotrich say about Gaza?
Bezalel Smotrich, Israel’s far-right Finance Minister, described the Gaza Strip as a ‘real estate bonanza’ and revealed plans for its development into a profitable venture.
What is the Palestinian response to Smotrich’s statements?
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned Smotrich’s statements, labeling them as a sign of ‘moral and political bankruptcy’ and criticizing Israel for its ongoing siege and military operations in Gaza.
What are the plans for Gaza according to Smotrich?
According to Smotrich, Israel is in discussions with the United States about dividing and developing Gaza into a profitable real estate project, with the cost of reconstruction being significantly lower due to the ‘demolition phase’ already completed.
How does this align with previous statements by US President Donald Trump?
Donald Trump previously suggested the possibility of a US takeover of Gaza, proposing to transform it into a ‘Riviera of the Middle East’ and a major tourist and technology hub.
What are the potential implications of these plans for Gaza?
The plans could have significant implications for Gaza, including further displacement and humanitarian suffering for Palestinian civilians, as well as increased tensions in the region.
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