London, United Kingdom – Tensions rise in Israel as far-right Israeli ministers threaten to collapse the governing coalition if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agrees to a Gaza ceasefire proposal put forth by US President Joe Biden.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir firmly oppose reaching any deal before Hamas is completely dismantled. On the other hand, opposition leader Yair Lapid pledges support to the government should Netanyahu endorse the plan.
The proposal involves a phased approach to ceasefire, with the first step being a six-week ceasefire where Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw from populated areas of Gaza. The plan also includes the eventual release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza.
In a social media post, Smotrich expressed his refusal to be part of any government that agrees to the proposed outline without first neutralizing Hamas and bringing back all hostages. Similarly, Ben-Gvir denounced the deal, labeling it as a victory for terrorism and a threat to Israel’s security.
The right-wing coalition led by Netanyahu walks a tightrope in parliament, relying on various factions, including Ben-Gvir’s Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party and Smotrich’s Religious Zionism party, to retain power. Contrarily, opposition leader Yair Lapid’s party offers a safety net for the government in the event of a breakdown with the far-right ministers.
While supporters of Netanyahu rallied in Tel Aviv to urge acceptance of Biden’s plan, critics fear potential dangers and view the prime minister as a potential obstacle to progress. Meanwhile, a campaign advocating for the release of Israeli hostages captured by Hamas has voiced concerns over the potential ramifications of accepting the deal.
Struggles between protesters and police erupted in Tel Aviv, underscoring the growing divide and calling for action on the hostage issue and the leadership of Netanyahu. The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, with mediators pushing for the finalization of Biden’s proposed agreement.