Ben-Gvir and Smotrich Threaten to Leave Government and the War Cabinet demands US guarantees that Israel will be allowed to keep fighting to topple Hamas rule.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under intense pressure from within his coalition, facing significant backlash for his delays and refusal to present the outline of a ceasefire negotiation document referred to by U.S. President Joe Biden. The contentious document, central to the ongoing negotiations with Hamas, has become a flashpoint for internal discord.

Far-right coalition partners Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir have been vocal in their demands. “The Prime Minister must present the negotiation document immediately,” Smotrich insisted. “The Israeli public and our coalition partners deserve transparency on any agreement that could impact our national security.” Ben-Gvir echoed this sentiment, adding, “Without clear assurances that Hamas will be toppled, we cannot support any ceasefire deal. We are prepared to leave the government if necessary.”

Netanyahu’s reluctance to reveal the document has fueled speculation and concern. “There are critical security considerations at play,” Netanyahu stated in a press briefing. “Premature disclosure could jeopardize our strategic advantage and the safety of our citizens.”

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, seen as an ally to Netanyahu in this matter, has supported the Prime Minister’s cautious approach. “We are in a sensitive phase of negotiations,” Gallant commented. “Revealing the document now could undermine our position and embolden Hamas.”

Despite Gallant’s backing, the pressure from Smotrich and Ben-Gvir threatens to destabilize Netanyahu’s coalition. “We cannot allow a situation where critical decisions are made without full transparency and assurance of our security objectives,” Smotrich warned. “If Netanyahu fails to present the document and guarantee the dismantling of Hamas, our participation in this government will be untenable.”

The controversy has also drawn attention from the international community. President Biden has emphasized the importance of the document in facilitating a ceasefire. “The negotiation outline is crucial for de-escalating the situation and ensuring a sustainable peace,” Biden said. “I urge Prime Minister Netanyahu to share the details with his coalition and the public.”

Adding to the complexity, the Israeli War Cabinet gave its unanimous approval last night, demanding U.S. guarantees that Israel would be able to resume fighting to topple Hamas after the first phase of the agreement. This stance directly counters Hamas’ insistence on U.S. guarantees that fighting will not resume. “We need clear assurances that our fight against Hamas can continue if necessary,” said an Israeli official. “Without this, any ceasefire agreement is fundamentally flawed.”

Opposition leader Benny Gantz has seized the opportunity to criticize Netanyahu’s handling of the situation. “This is yet another example of Netanyahu’s inability to lead effectively,” Gantz asserted. “Transparency and decisive action are needed now more than ever.”

As the conflict with Hamas continues, the internal political strife adds another layer of complexity. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have maintained their operations in Gaza, targeting Hamas infrastructure. “Our mission remains clear: to neutralize the threat posed by Hamas,” an IDF spokesperson reiterated. “We will continue our operations until our objectives are met.”

The ongoing military actions and political turmoil have heightened concerns among the Israeli public. “People are losing faith in the government’s ability to manage this crisis,” said a political analyst from the Jerusalem Post. “Netanyahu’s refusal to disclose the document and the threats from his coalition partners are creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and instability.”

As Netanyahu navigates this precarious situation, the stakes are incredibly high. The potential collapse of his coalition could lead to significant political upheaval, while the continued conflict with Hamas poses ongoing security risks. “The Prime Minister must act decisively to maintain his coalition and ensure Israel’s security,” urged a commentator from the Times of Israel. “The future of his government and the safety of the nation depend on it.”