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Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir publicly confronted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over ceasefire negotiations, declaring that the premier lacks the authority to end the war without achieving decisive victory against Hamas.
The provocative statement came as discussions continue over a new U.S.-proposed ceasefire deal for Gaza. Ben-Gvir, known for his opposition to ceasefire agreements and humanitarian aid access to the territory, took to social media platform X to address Netanyahu directly.
"Dear Prime Minister, you do not have the authority to end the war without achieving a decisive victory against Hamas," Ben-Gvir wrote in his post.
The minister, who has consistently advocated for the occupation and annexation of Gaza, represents one of the most hawkish voices in Netanyahu's coalition government. His public challenge underscores growing tensions within Israel's ruling coalition as pressure mounts for a ceasefire agreement.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar responded to Ben-Gvir's remarks with his own social media statement, expressing confidence that Netanyahu would defend Israel's interests in upcoming talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. "Israel's clear national interest is to end the war and achieve its objectives," Saar stated.
Opposition party "There is a Future" leader Yair Lapid announced his support for Netanyahu regarding prisoner exchange and ceasefire negotiations, informing the U.S. administration of his backing.
"Today I informed the U.S. administration that Netanyahu has my support regarding the prisoner exchange agreement and ending the war. This is supported by a majority in the Knesset and in the country. Therefore, there is no need to pay attention to the empty threats of Ben-Gvir and [Finance Minister Bezalel] Smotrich," Lapid wrote on X.
Israeli hostage families escalated their pressure on Netanyahu, warning that "the gates of hell will open for him" if he returns from the United States without securing a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.
Thousands of Israelis demonstrated, demanding that Netanyahu's government not sabotage ceasefire and prisoner exchange negotiations this time. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, directly addressed Netanyahu with a stark warning: "If you sabotage the agreement once more, we will never leave you alone forever. Neither you nor those around you will find peace for even a second."
Israeli police detained two protesters outside Foreign Minister Saar's Tel Aviv residence, according to local media reports.
Reports indicate the United States has presented a 21-point proposal for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement in Gaza. According to Israeli media, the proposal stipulates that if both Israel and Hamas accept the terms, attacks on Gaza would cease immediately and all living and deceased prisoners in Gaza would be released within 48 hours.
The proposal reportedly includes provisions for Israel's gradual withdrawal from occupied areas in Gaza and measures regarding Gaza's future following the end of hostilities. The agreement is expected to be discussed during Monday's anticipated meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House.
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