Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir Resigns Over Gaza Ceasefire Deal

Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, resigned from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet on Sunday in protest against the government’s ceasefire deal with Hamas.

While Ben-Gvir’s departure does not immediately threaten the ceasefire agreement, it significantly weakens Netanyahu’s governing coalition. The ultranationalist politician has urged other far-right lawmakers to follow his lead, a move that could cost Netanyahu his parliamentary majority and potentially trigger early elections.

Ben-Gvir’s resignation marks the latest in a series of defiant actions by the 48-year-old settler leader, who has gone from being a radical activist to one of Israel’s most powerful political figures. His decision reflects deep divisions within Netanyahu’s government regarding the handling of the Gaza conflict.

Ben-Gvir, once considered a fringe extremist, has built a strong political base by advocating for aggressive policies against Palestinians and promoting nationalist ideals. Over the years, he has transformed from an outlaw and provocateur into a central player in Israeli politics, leading the far-right Jewish Power party.