Finance minister urges Cabinet approval of Shamgar principles to strengthen deterrence and national security.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has formally urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to bring forward a decisive Cabinet discussion on codifying Israel’s long-debated prisoner and missing persons ransom principles.
In a letter to Netanyahu, Smotrich called for swift government backing of the proposed legislation advanced by MK Ohad Tal. The bill seeks to formally anchor the recommendations of the Shamgar Committee into Israeli law.
The proposal was previously discussed in the Ministerial Committee for Legislation and transferred to the security-political Cabinet at the prime minister’s request.
Strengthening Deterrence, Reducing Incentives for Abductions
Smotrich emphasized that formally adopting the Shamgar Committee’s framework would address critical strategic vulnerabilities.
According to the minister, a clear and consistent national policy would:
- Reinforce Israeli deterrence
- Reduce incentives for terror groups to abduct Israelis
- Prevent hostile actors from exploiting hostage situations
- Establish a uniform doctrine during future conflicts
He warned that the absence of structured policy leaves Israeli citizens — both at home and abroad — exposed to kidnapping threats designed to pressure the state into disadvantageous concessions.
Smotrich noted that, following the recent return of Israeli captives, the timing is appropriate for sober strategic reflection.
He framed the legislation as a long-term security necessity, arguing that codifying principles now would prevent future dilemmas under emotional or international pressure.
“This is a necessary step as part of the lessons of the war for the future and security of the State of Israel for decades to come,” he wrote, calling it a duty to future generations.
Strategic Implications
The Shamgar framework was originally designed to prevent disproportionate prisoner exchanges that could incentivize further kidnappings. Supporters argue that embedding these principles into law would provide clarity to military planners and political leaders during crises.
The issue now awaits a Cabinet decision that could shape Israel’s hostage policy for years ahead and redefine its approach to deterrence in an increasingly volatile region.
