Reactions in Israel to Proposed Gaza Ceasefire Plan are Divided
Jerusalem, CNN – Proposed plans for a ceasefire in Gaza have sparked a significant rift within the Israeli government, drawing both support and fierce opposition from key political figures. The response highlights the delicate balancing act Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces as he navigates the ongoing conflict with Hamas and pressures from within his coalition.
The reaction underscores the deep political divisions within Israel regarding the future of the war and the terms under which it should end. While some lawmakers express support for a deal to secure the release of hostages, others insist on a “complete defeat of Hamas” and threaten to destabilize Netanyahu’s government should a ceasefire be implemented.
Israel’s far-right minister of national security, Itamar Ben Gvir, publicly called on Netanyahu to reject the plan, stating on X, “Mr. prime Minister, you do not have a mandate to end the war without a complete defeat of Hamas.” Ben Gvir and fellow far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich have consistently opposed hostage deals and ceasefire arrangements, advocating for continued military pressure and full occupation of the territory. They have also threatened to topple Netanyahu’s government if the war concludes without meeting their demands.
However, other lawmakers have voiced support for Netanyahu’s approach. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed his trust in Netanyahu ”to represent Israel’s interests” on X. additionally, Netanyahu’s ultra-orthodox coalition partners, including Chairman of Degel HaTorah, MK Moshe Gafni, have publicly supported a hostage deal resulting in a ceasefire.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid urged the public to disregard the threats from the far-right ministers, writing on X, “There is no reason to be alarmed by the empty threats of Ben Gvir and Smotrich.” Lapid has previously offered a “security net” to Netanyahu to support a hostage deal that would prevent a government collapse.
