Israel’s hardline National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to resign from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government if it ratifies a ceasefire deal in Gaza. The deal, which includes releasing hundreds of Palestinian militants and withdrawing from strategic areas, has been strongly opposed by Ben-Gvir.
The cabinet is expected to vote on the deal on Friday, but there has been no confirmation from the prime minister’s office. If approved, Ben-Gvir claims it would “erase the achievements of the war” and leave Hamas undefeated.
Ben-Gvir’s threat comes as tensions rise among Israeli politicians over the agreement. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has also threatened to quit if the government does not go back to war to defeat Hamas.
The deal is part of a multi-phase agreement that includes releasing 33 hostages in the first stage and negotiating their release from the remaining 65. However, some hostage families believe their relatives will be left behind in Gaza and have protested against the deal.
Despite the opposition, US officials say they believe the issue has been ironed out, and the ceasefire is expected to begin on Sunday as planned.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/hardline-israeli-minister-ben-gvir-threatens-quit-over-gaza-deal-2025-01-16