Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right police minister, is considering leaving Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition over a proposed ceasefire with Hamas. As tensions rise following a knife attack in Tel Aviv, thousands protest for a hostage agreement that would see 33 hostages released in exchange for 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. Concerns about the ceasefire’s effectiveness loom, with Netanyahu warning of military action if negotiations falter. Meanwhile, regional dynamics shift as the Houthi militia in Yemen pauses its attacks on Israel, awaiting the ceasefire’s success.
Ben-Gvir’s Coalition Departure Amid Ceasefire Tensions
Recent media reports indicate that Israel’s far-right police minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, is contemplating exiting the coalition government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This decision comes as a response to the proposed ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Following a knife attack in Tel Aviv, the situation remains volatile as developments unfold.
As the ceasefire nears implementation, thousands of individuals have gathered in Tel Aviv to advocate for a comprehensive hostage deal. Demonstrators are calling for an agreement that ensures the safe return of all hostages taken by Hamas. The initial phase of this arrangement involves the release of 33 out of 98 remaining hostages within six weeks, in exchange for the liberation of approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli jails.
Concerns Over Ceasefire Viability and Hostage Negotiations
Families of the hostages express apprehension regarding the potential failure of the agreement, particularly as discussions for subsequent phases of the ceasefire are set to occur soon. The uncertainty surrounding these negotiations raises fears of renewed conflict, which could leave many Israeli captives stranded in Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has warned that he may resume military operations if the ceasefire proves ineffective. He has garnered support from both U.S. President Donald Trump and his predecessor Joe Biden, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend itself. “If we have to return to fighting, we will do so in a new, vigorous manner,” Netanyahu stated in a recent video address.
Meanwhile, Ben-Gvir has urged fellow government members to join him in resigning from the coalition, emphasizing their stance against the ceasefire. He maintains that his actions are not intended to topple Netanyahu, who still possesses a parliamentary majority.
As the ceasefire approaches, the Israeli military has issued warnings to Gaza residents, advising them to avoid military zones for their safety. The ceasefire, beginning Sunday morning, aims to allow displaced individuals to return home safely after its initial phase.
In related news, the United Nations reported that approximately 200,000 Syrian refugees have returned to their homeland since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This development highlights the ongoing humanitarian issues in the region as support for returnees is strengthened.
As negotiations continue, Netanyahu has expressed frustration over Hamas’s failure to provide a list of hostages to be released. He has made it clear that Israel will not tolerate any violations of the ceasefire agreement.
In a separate incident, a knife attack in Tel Aviv left one man critically injured, with a passerby reportedly intervening and shooting the assailant, who was a 19-year-old Palestinian. The circumstances of the attack are still unclear as authorities investigate the scene.
Additionally, the Houthi militia in Yemen has announced its intention to cease attacks against Israel, contingent on the successful implementation of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This statement reflects the broader regional implications of the ongoing conflict.