Israeli Ministers and Settlers March to Gaza Border Demanding Resettlement

On July 19, 2026, thousands of Israeli settlers and right-wing activists, joined by senior government ministers, marched to the Gaza border to demand the re-establishment of Jewish settlements in the territory. Organized by the Nachala Movement under the slogan 'Returning home after 21 years,' the event sought to pressure the Israeli government to reverse the 2005 disengagement. Despite the area being declared a closed military zone by the IDF, participants bypassed checkpoints to reach the border fence. The march featured prominent cabinet members, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who publicly advocated for the resettlement of Gaza and the displacement of the Palestinian population.

// Background

No background data compiled.

// Key Developments

• Senior Israeli officials, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, participated in the march.
• The event was organized by the Nachala Movement, which advocates for the 'conquest' of Gaza and the expulsion of Palestinians.
• Participants defied a military order designating the area a closed military zone, with some bypassing checkpoints to reach the border fence.
• Finance Minister Smotrich stated that plans for three settlements in Gaza have already been drafted by the Defense Ministry.