Reports from international news agencies and official statements from the Israeli government

Ben-Gvir and Otzma Yehudit Ministers Resign Over Gaza Ceasefire Deal

Jan 18, 2025, 07:40 PM

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has resigned from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in protest over a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas in Gaza. Ben-Gvir, leader of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, submitted his resignation along with other party ministers on Sunday morning, calling the agreement "disastrous", "reckless", and a threat to Israel's national security. He criticized the release of prisoners to Jerusalem and the West Bank, stating that the deal "violates all red lines" and undermines the war's successes. Despite his resignation, Ben-Gvir stated he would ensure Netanyahu remains Prime Minister.