Netanyahu and Smotrich Discuss Gaza Ceasefire Amid Coalition Tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is currently meeting with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to deliberate on a proposed Gaza ceasefire and hostage release agreement. This meeting is pivotal for Netanyahu as he seeks to secure support within his coalition for the deal.
The proposed agreement, mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, aims to establish a phased ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas. However, it has encountered resistance from key members of Netanyahu’s coalition.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a prominent far-right figure, has expressed strong opposition to the deal. He has threatened to resign from the government if Netanyahu proceeds and has urged Smotrich to join him in this stance, aiming to exert pressure on Netanyahu to abandon the agreement.
Smotrich has also voiced objections to the proposed ceasefire but has not yet indicated a willingness to leave the coalition over the issue. His current meeting with Netanyahu is seen as a critical juncture in determining the government’s position on the ceasefire proposal.
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The potential resignation of Ben-Gvir, and possibly Smotrich, could destabilize Netanyahu’s coalition. However, reports suggest that Netanyahu may seek support from centrist parties to maintain government stability if far-right ministers withdraw.
The ceasefire agreement under discussion is reported to involve a temporary halt in hostilities and the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The deal is considered the closest step toward ending the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
In the continuation of the negotiations,, Netanyahu faces the challenge of balancing international diplomatic efforts with internal political pressures from his coalition partners, making the outcome of his meeting with Smotrich particularly significant.
