Israel’s far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said Thursday (January 16, 2025) that he and his party colleagues would quit the cabinet if it approved a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, though they would not leave the country’s ruling coalition.

Calling it an “irresponsible” deal, he said he would consider returning to the government if the war resumes after the first phase of the ceasefire. Ben Gvir also called for a “complete stop” to all humanitarian aid for Gaza, including fuel, electricity and water, until all hostages are released.