Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich vehemently opposed the release of Palestinian prisoners as part of any potential Gaza cease-fire agreement with Hamas. He described the release as a “terrible and horrific event” and stated that it was a red line that must not be crossed.
The ongoing conflict has seen more than 38,000 Palestinians killed, with around 250 taken as hostages by Israel. This has led to a humanitarian disaster and an ongoing trial over alleged genocide at the International Court of Justice.
Smotrich cited the example of the release of Yahya Sinwar in 2011 in exchange for former Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, questioning the logic of repeating such actions. He vowed to oppose any prisoner exchange, even if it meant the end of his political career.
Despite efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to mediate a hostage exchange and cease-fire in Gaza, Smotrich remains steadfast in his opposition, criticizing the security establishment for pursuing what he believes to be an illegal deal at any cost.