Israeli Finance Minister Opposes Egypt's Hamas Hostage Deal Proposal

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has vehemently rejected Egypt's suggestion for a hostage deal with Hamas, calling it a "humiliating surrender" and an "existential danger" to Israel. Smotrich accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of allowing Hamas to grow stronger over the past two decades and threatened that the government would have no right to exist if it fails to invade Rafah, Hamas's last bastion in the Palestinian territory, and destroy the Islamist movement. "If Netanyahu cancels the planned military operation in Rafah, southern Gaza, the current government would have no right to exist," Smotrich conveyed to the prime minister.

The disagreement within the Israeli government highlights the tensions and debate over how to handle the hostage situation with Hamas. Defense Minister Benny Gantz said the government has no right to exist if it prevents a hostage deal, stating that the return of the hostages is more important than a military incursion into Rafah. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts have intensified to reach a truce and hostage-release deal in Gaza, with Egypt, Qatar, and the United States mediating.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has significant implications for regional stability and the lives of civilians in Gaza. The disagreement among Israeli officials over the proposed hostage deal underscores the intricate political and security challenges faced by the Israeli government in addressing the situation.

Israel's latest proposal reportedly includes a willingness to discuss the "restoration of sustainable calm" in Gaza after hostages are released, which would be the first time Israeli leaders have suggested they are open to discussing an end to the nearly seven-month war. A Hamas delegation is set to visit Cairo on Monday to continue discussions with Egyptian intelligence officials on the cease-fire and hostage release deal. The White House has said that U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Netanyahu, urging progress on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza and protecting civilians. Qatar, a key intermediary, has expressed disappointment with both Hamas and Israel, saying they have made decisions based on political interests rather than the well-being of civilians.

Key Takeaways

• Israeli minister rejects Egypt's hostage deal with Hamas, calls it "humiliating surrender".
• Disagreement within Israeli govt over handling hostage situation, with ministers opposing each other.
• Diplomatic efforts intensify to reach truce and hostage-release deal in Gaza, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, US.
• Israel's latest proposal includes willingness to discuss "sustainable calm" in Gaza after hostages released.
• Qatar expresses disappointment with both Hamas and Israel for decisions based on political interests.