Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has convened an urgent meeting with his two most hardline cabinet ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, as tensions mount over a potential ceasefire with Hamas and a deal for the release of Israeli hostages.
The two far-right ministers, crucial to Netanyahu’s governing coalition, have openly opposed the terms currently being considered in negotiations mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar. Smotrich, who serves as Finance Minister, has resisted easing humanitarian aid into Gaza, while Ben-Gvir has labeled any deal a “historic mistake,” threatening to collapse the government if it is approved.
The ongoing negotiations are expected to include a 60-day ceasefire and a phased release of hostages. While Netanyahu has publicly maintained a cautious yet optimistic stance, the significant pressure from within his coalition threatens its very political existence.
