19.01.2025 14:33
The ceasefire, which began with a delay of 2 hours and 45 minutes between Israel and Hamas, has led to comments from the Tel Aviv administration suggesting it "may not be long-lasting." The far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's call to invade Gaza and Netanyahu's emphasis on a "temporary ceasefire" complicate the possibility of lasting peace in the region.
The long-awaited ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect at 12:15, albeit with a delay, following Israeli attacks.
SHOCKING WORDS AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE
However, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar's statements raised questions about how long this ceasefire could last. Sa'ar stated at a press conference that Israel's primary goal is still to "focus on militarily and politically destroying Hamas."
Emphasizing the importance of bringing the hostages back to Israel, Sa'ar continued to target Hamas and said, "As long as Hamas remains in power, there is no future for stability and security for either side."
"I WILL OVERTHROW THE GOVERNMENT" THREAT
Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for Israel to occupy the Gaza Strip and establish a temporary military administration. Speaking on Israel Army Radio, the far-right minister said, "There is no other way to defeat Hamas. Israel must occupy Gaza and establish a temporary military government." He stated that if the government does not act in this direction, he would overthrow it.
Smotrich harshly criticized Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi and accused him of strategic weakness. The minister said, "If I were Prime Minister, I would tell the Chief of Staff, 'This is my policy. If you are not implementing it, leave.'" He also emphasized that the management of humanitarian aid in Gaza should be taken over by Israel.
SMOTRICH'S CALL SPARKED CONTROVERSY
Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu had previously stated that Israel has no plans to conquer or permanently occupy the Gaza Strip. Smotrich's call has led to debates within the Israeli government and among the public. In a 10-minute pre-recorded video released on Saturday evening, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu described the first phase of the agreement involving the release of hostages as a "temporary ceasefire."
Netanyahu stated that Israel would not rest "until all war objectives are completed." He noted that the U.S. has committed to providing Israel with the necessary military support to return to war if needed and emphasized that Israel could continue to fight "with new methods and with very great force."