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Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir Threatens to Resign Over Gaza Deal Involving 33 Hostages and 1,000 Prisoners

Jan 16, 2025, 07:29 PM

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has announced that his party, Otzma Yehudit, will resign from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government if the cabinet approves a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas. The agreement, which involves the release of 33 hostages in exchange for 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, has been criticized by Ben-Gvir as a threat to Israel's security. He argues that the deal would allow terrorist groups in Gaza to regroup, endangering residents near the border. Ben-Gvir also expressed concerns about the fate of hostages not included in the initial phase of the deal, labeling it a 'death pact' that seals the destiny of other captives. Despite his opposition, the security cabinet is expected to approve the agreement. Ben-Gvir has indicated that his party would be willing to return to the government if hostilities with Hamas resume following the ceasefire.