Ben-Gvir Threatens Resignation Over Hamas Deal

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to resign from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government if a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas is approved. Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich are opposing the deal, which they describe as a dangerous concession that would threaten national security. Although Ben-Gvir insists that their collective resignation could prevent the deal, Smotrich has not committed to leaving the coalition. The proposed agreement would involve releasing 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, which has sparked significant divisions within the government and among the public. Despite the threats, Netanyahu's coalition might remain stable, as opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered support in exchange for advancing the hostage deal. Amid ongoing negotiations mediated by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, public sentiment appears to favor a ceasefire agreement, despite concerns from hostage families about the deal's effectiveness.