Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has issued a stark warning in recent days: he will resign from the government if Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proceeds with any deal with Hamas — whether partial or comprehensive — according to a report aired Wednesday night on Channel 12.
Responding to the report, Smotrich’s office stated, “The Finance Minister does not comment on matters discussed in meetings with bereaved families and the families of hostages.” However, the statement reaffirmed his firm stance: “The minister’s position remains unchanged — there is no justification for a partial deal that leaves some hostages behind and allows Hamas to remain in power. He expects the Prime Minister to clarify his position without ambiguity.”
Adding to the chorus of opposition to a limited agreement, former Navy commander Eliezer Marom also spoke out, warning that Israel must not settle for a partial deal with Hamas.
Marom argued that Hamas was already destabilized by Israel’s decision to launch its military operation in Gaza City, despite the dangers to the hostages. “Any partial deal would give Hamas a 60-day window to regroup,” he warned. “What we saw today in Khan Yunis will repeat itself elsewhere if we allow that to happen.”
Marom added that Israel now faces two options: either reach a full, comprehensive agreement or continue with a complex military operation in Gaza.