Netanyahu's Gaza Ceasefire Deal Divides Israeli Politics
Israeli politics have been divided over a US-brokered Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's endorsement drawing both praise and criticism. The agreement, which includes an immediate ceasefire, hostage exchange, and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, has sparked debate among Israeli leaders and political parties.
Netanyahu's endorsement of the deal has been met with mixed reactions. While members of his ruling Likud party have praised it as a significant diplomatic achievement, opposition leader Yair Lapid has warned against potential backtracking. Meanwhile, former prime minister Naftali Bennett has blamed Netanyahu for the disaster of October 7th, calling for a state commission of inquiry.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has termed the widespread endorsement of the agreement as 'absurd', stating it was 'a historic missed opportunity' and 'a resounding diplomatic failure'. He characterized Netanyahu's approval of the plan as 'a tragedy of leadership that lacks true vision'. However, Avigdor Lieberman, head of the right-wing opposition Yisrael Beiteinu, has welcomed the ceasefire, quoting the Bible: 'And thy children shall return to their own border'. Some Likud members have expressed doubt about Hamas' agreement to the proposal.
The ceasefire plan, if implemented, would involve an immediate ceasefire, exchange of all hostages for Palestinian prisoners, staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, disarmament of Hamas, and introduction of a transitional government led by an international body. Despite the divisions, the Israeli government is expected to continue negotiations and consider the implications of the proposed deal.
