Before the interview begins, Nadia Matar holds two contrasting books: one about a sacred text and another titled Palestinian history. He remarks that the world must choose between these two narratives, then opens the Palestine book to reveal blank pages. He asserts that the history of Palestine is contested and contends that those who back a Palestinian state are seeking Israel’s destruction. Matar is described as a prominent figure within the national religious movement, an umbrella for the more radical segments of Jewish settlers, Zionist ultranationalism, and religious fundamentalism. He is portrayed as a leading activist in the movement’s strategy, including plans for expanding Jewish settlements in Gaza after any potential conflict, claiming that large cities could be built and populated with hundreds of thousands of Jews.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas is noted as having created a moment of leverage for conservative, expansionist factions that envision a return to Gaza since the disengagement in 2005, when Israeli forces evacuated thousands of settlers. He is quoted saying that after eliminating terrorists, remaining Arabs should consider relocating to other countries, and that Gaza would no longer be under Arab control. The rhetoric is attributed to the former Israeli ambassador to the UN and a Likud lawmaker, with a note that ethnic cleansing is presented as a plan. He adds that those who refuse to leave Gaza could stay if they accept Israeli governance.
Matar is described as having been born in Belgium and moving to Israel at age 18. Three of his six children are said to be serving in Gaza and Lebanon, while he co-leads an organization that advocates reannexation of the West Bank and Gaza. The article mentions a day after a Hamas attack, with a government official calling for actions against Gaza, including references to destruction. Assertions are attributed to him about moral responsibilities and wartime behavior, drawing parallels to historical Allied actions.
A government divided on recolonization plans
The feasibility of recolonizing Gaza after any conflict remains uncertain. U.S. President Joe Biden is reported to have cautioned that such a move would be a major mistake, while Netanyahu has said the idea is not realistic. The possibility of a renewed strategy depends on political balances in the United States and on future elections. A quote suggests reliance on American support for any large-scale operation.
In the Gush Etzion area, an activist notes that many actions by the movement are considered illegal under international law. He reflects on historical challenges faced by Jewish communities and comments on the present crisis and the perceived urgency of taking action.
The article mentions an activist group and a broader movement that has centered on the Hill Youth, a faction linked to occupation and displacement. It describes experiences on settlements and reflects on ideologies that advocate reclaiming land according to certain interpretations of history and religious belief.
A current government figure, Bezalel Smotrich, is described as supporting a swift resolution to what is termed the Palestinian issue, with the priority stated as recolonizing Gaza. The narrative notes multiple organizations, supported by various leaders, that organize lobbying, mobilization, and planning for new settlements.
The article concludes with a statement from Nadia Matar’s organization expressing a shared aim: to realize a Zionist vision from the Jordan River to the sea, indicating ongoing efforts to pursue this agenda.