National Security Minister Threatens to End Israeli Coalition Government Over Cease-Fire Deal
Itamar Ben-Gvir, the National Security Minister, has issued a stark warning to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, threatening to dissolve the coalition government if a cease-fire agreement is reached in exchange for the release of hostages.
Ben-Gvir has previously made similar threats during negotiations for previous deals, accusing Netanyahu of sabotaging agreements to maintain his power. In a recent security cabinet meeting, Ben-Gvir challenged Netanyahu, expressing disappointment in being sidelined in decision-making despite his significant voter support.
Netanyahu, who holds a majority in the Knesset, relies on far-right and ultra-Orthodox parties to stay in power. Despite calls for his resignation following a recent massacre, Netanyahu has resisted taking responsibility and has ignored demands for new elections.
Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smortich have opposed the proposed cease-fire, insisting on the complete defeat of Hamas before considering any peace agreements. They argue that prioritizing the release of hostages is not in the nation’s best interest.
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