Far-Right Israeli Ministers Threaten Resignation Over Biden's Peace Proposal for Gaza
ICARO Media Group
In a significant development, two far-right Israeli ministers have threatened to resign and potentially collapse Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's governing coalition if he accepts a peace proposal presented by US President Joe Biden. The proposal, unveiled by Biden on Friday, outlines a three-phase plan to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
According to Biden's plan, the proposal aims to pair a release of hostages with a "full and complete ceasefire." During his speech at the White House, Biden expressed confidence in the degradation of Hamas, stating that it can no longer carry out significant attacks like the one on October 7 that initiated the current war in Gaza. Biden's implication that Israel's war goals have been achieved was met with mixed reactions.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, the two influential far-right members of the Israeli government, explicitly rejected the immediate ceasefire called for in Biden's proposal. Smotrich underscored his firm stance, stating that he will not be a part of any government that agrees to the proposed outline without destroying Hamas and ensuring the return of all hostages. Ben Gvir echoed similar sentiments, criticizing the deal as "reckless" and "a victory for terrorism."
Prime Minister Netanyahu has also cast doubt over Biden's proposed ceasefire, signaling his reluctance to accept it. Netanyahu's hesitation, coupled with the strong opposition from the far-right ministers, raises questions about the future of the peace proposal.
Biden acknowledged the potential tensions within the Israeli government during his speech, appealing to ordinary Israelis to voice their support for the plan. Emphasizing the phased approach, the proposal seeks to first free the hostages and see Israel withdraw from populated areas of Gaza. Ultimately, the plan aims to rebuild the war-torn region.
The international community welcomed the proposal, with the United Nations and other international powers urging Israel and Hamas to embrace it. Hamas, in a positive response, expressed readiness to deal constructively with any proposal based on a permanent ceasefire. However, they also made it clear that they would not accept any other governing group in Gaza besides Hamas.
While awaiting an official response from Hamas, the White House National Security Council spokesperson conveyed that the Biden administration expects both sides to agree to the proposed plan. However, the Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that Israel would not accept any deal that allows Hamas to maintain control over Gaza. Israel is now considering alternative governing options for the region.
Netanyahu not only faces pressure from within his own coalition but also from widespread protests demanding his resignation and early elections. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has offered support for Netanyahu's acceptance of the proposal while condemning the threats made by the far-right ministers.
As the conflict in Gaza approaches its ninth month, Netanyahu's government is facing mounting international calls to end the war. Triggered by Hamas attacks on Israeli civilians on October 7, the ongoing campaign has claimed the lives of around 1,200 people and led to the hostage-taking of over 200 individuals. The situation remains tense, and the final outcome of the peace proposal hangs in the balance.
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