Ben-Gvir Criticizes Ceasefire Agreement with Hamas as Reckless, Threatens Government Withdrawal

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Israeli Minister of National Security, has voiced strong opposition to the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, labeling it as a "reckless" arrangement. He believes that the deal undermines the progress made during the war, particularly highlighting concerns over the release of numerous militants and the potential for chaos in the region. Ben-Gvir warned that if this agreement is endorsed, his political party, Otzma Yehudit, would exit the government, demonstrating a firm stance against what he perceives as a grave mistake.

In a social media post, Ben-Gvir elaborated that the emerging agreement includes the liberation of hundreds of "murderous terrorists," the return of thousands of militants to Gaza, an erosion of territorial security via the withdrawal from the Philadelphia corridor, and a cessation of hostilities. He asserted that not only does the agreement fail to secure the release of all hostages, leaving many in limbo, but it also risks halting military efforts while Hamas remains a threat and retains its capacity for resurgence.

He has further urged members of the Religious Zionist Party and Knesset officials from the Likud party to collaborate in opposing this deal, which he described as a "surrender." In contrast, earlier statements from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States indicated that a tentative agreement had been reached for a ceasefire and hostage exchanges, set to commence on January 19. President Joe Biden announced the successfully negotiated terms, which include a comprehensive ceasefire and a potential return of both Israeli forces and hostages in structured phases, although the political fallout continues as leaders engage in discussions in the wake of this announcement.