Israel's National Security Minister Threatens Resignation Over Gaza Ceasefire Deal
Itamar Ben-Gvir and Far-Right Party May Withdraw from Government if Ceasefire Is Approved
Jerusalem, Israel – Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to resign from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet if the proposed ceasefire agreement with Hamas is approved, following more than 460 days of war in Gaza.
On Thursday evening, Ben-Gvir sharply criticized the ceasefire deal, stating that his far-right Otzma Yehudit party – also known as the Jewish Power Party – would leave the government if the deal goes forward.
"If this irresponsible agreement is approved and implemented, the Jewish Power Party will not be part of the government and will leave it," Ben-Gvir declared. He further argued that in order to secure the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas, humanitarian aid, as well as fuel, electricity, and water supplies, should be "completely stopped" from entering Gaza. "Only then will Hamas release our hostages without jeopardizing Israel's security," he added.
Ben-Gvir also called on Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, leader of the Religious Zionist Party, to resign if the ceasefire is approved, signaling a potential rift within the cabinet. Should both parties withdraw their support, Netanyahu's coalition government would lose its majority in the Knesset.
However, opposition parties have pledged to support Netanyahu as long as the ceasefire deal proceeds, according to Israeli media reports.
Despite his harsh criticism, Ben-Gvir stated he did not intend to "overthrow" Netanyahu’s government and would consider rejoining if the ceasefire collapses.
In response, Netanyahu's Likud party issued a statement condemning any efforts to dismantle the right-wing government. Likud defended the ceasefire, emphasizing that it would "maximize the number of live hostages" released while ensuring "Israel's security for generations to come."
Since October 2023, Israeli forces have killed at least 46,788 people in Gaza, with accusations of genocide against Israel at the International Criminal Court.
The ceasefire deal, brokered by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, is set to last six weeks, with ongoing negotiations for the second and third phases. While the deal is in place, Israel has not ruled out resuming military action.