Tensions have escalated inside the Israeli government as far-right minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced that he will vote against the proposed Gaza ceasefire deal. The National Security Minister has warned that if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agrees to the truce without completely dismantling Hamas, his party will withdraw support — a move that could collapse the ruling coalition.

The statement comes as Israel and Hamas are reportedly close to a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

Ben Gvir’s Threat to Netanyahu

Ben Gvir, who leads the Jewish Power Party, said any pause in fighting would be a “grave mistake.” He argued that a ceasefire would allow Hamas to regroup and weaken Israel’s national security.

“If the government accepts a deal that leaves Hamas standing, we will leave the coalition. We didn’t go to war to stop halfway,” Ben Gvir declared.

His statement has created political shockwaves, as Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition depends heavily on support from Ben Gvir’s and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s parties to maintain a majority in the Knesset (Israel’s Parliament).

What’s in the Ceasefire Deal

The proposed ceasefire agreement reportedly includes:

• A temporary pause in Israeli military operations in Gaza.
• The release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
• The release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
• Permission for more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

While U.S. and Qatari mediators believe this could reduce civilian suffering, Israeli hardliners like Ben Gvir argue it rewards terrorism and undermines Israel’s military goals.

“Stopping now means Hamas wins. The only acceptable outcome is their total destruction,” Ben Gvir told reporters.

Netanyahu’s Balancing Act

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now facing one of the most difficult decisions of his political career. On one hand, the international community is urging Israel to agree to a ceasefire to prevent further humanitarian disaster in Gaza. On the other, members of his own coalition are threatening rebellion if he shows restraint.

Analysts say Netanyahu is walking a tightrope, balancing:

1. International pressure from allies like the U.S.,
2. Domestic anger from families of hostages, and
3. Political threats from far-right partners like Ben Gvir.

If the Jewish Power Party withdraws from the coalition, Netanyahu’s government could lose its parliamentary majority, forcing early elections — something he desperately wants to avoid amid growing criticism over his handling of the war.

Political Divide in Israel

Ben Gvir’s threat has deepened Israel’s internal political divide.

• Right-wing supporters say he is standing up for Israel’s long-term security and refusing to compromise with terrorists.
• Opposition leaders, however, accuse him of endangering peace and putting politics above national interest.

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid urged Netanyahu not to give in to extremist pressure.

“The Prime Minister must act for the people, not his coalition partners. The lives of hostages and civilians must come first,” Lapid said.

Global Reaction

The international response to Ben Gvir’s remarks has been one of concern.

• The United States reiterated its support for Israel’s security but emphasized the need for a “humanitarian pause” in fighting.
• The United Nations warned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is “catastrophic,” with hospitals running out of fuel, food, and medical supplies.
• Egypt and Qatar, key mediators in the peace talks, expressed hope that political divisions in Israel would not derail the ceasefire efforts.

The Gaza Conflict: A Quick Recap

The ongoing war began after the October 7 Hamas attack, when militants infiltrated southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 200 hostages.

Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground offensive aimed at destroying Hamas. However, the operation has caused widespread devastation in Gaza, where thousands of civilians have been killed and millions displaced.

International pressure has grown for Israel to stop or slow down its operations, especially after reports of civilian casualties in hospitals and refugee camps.

Despite months of fighting, Hamas remains active in parts of Gaza, leading Israeli hardliners like Ben Gvir to demand that the military campaign continue until Hamas is completely wiped out.

Netanyahu’s Political Future at Stake

The Prime Minister’s political future may hinge on this decision. If he agrees to a ceasefire, he could face a revolt from his far-right allies; if he refuses, Israel risks further isolation internationally and growing unrest at home.

According to Israeli media, Netanyahu has held several emergency meetings with senior ministers to discuss possible compromises, such as a short-term humanitarian pause instead of a full ceasefire.

However, Ben Gvir insists he will accept nothing less than total victory over Hamas.

“If we stop now, everything we fought for will be lost,” he said.