ALWAGHT- An Israeli minister, along with their entire party, has resigned from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ruling coalition in protest against the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
Itamar Ben-Gvir and his “Jewish Power” party announced their withdrawal from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, citing opposition to the recently approved ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The party criticized the deal as a "capitulation" and a betrayal of Israel's purported military achievements in the ongoing conflict. Despite their departure, Jewish Power stated it would not seek to dismantle Netanyahu’s government but would consider rejoining the coalition if hostilities resume.
Ben-Gvir admitted in a video on social media that he and another minister, Bezalel Smotrich, had attempted to use their influence to block the ceasefire agreement. He called for a complete halt to humanitarian aid, including fuel, electricity, and water, to Gaza, further escalating his hardline stance. Ben-Gvir has a controversial past, including convictions for incitement to racism and support for the extremist group Kahane Chai.
The ceasefire agreement, which came into effect on Sunday, followed Israel's military offensive in Gaza, initiated after a major operation by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The conflict has led to devastating casualties, with over 46,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, killed and nearly 110,000 injured. Israel’s actions have drawn widespread condemnation for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
