Fears Over the Deal’s Consequences
The letter, addressed to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior ministers, highlighted the sacrifices of those who fell in the War of the Iron Swords and raised concerns about the deal’s implications. It pointed to the inclusion of a ceasefire and the partial return of hostages, stating, “This is a blood deal that will cost Israeli citizens dearly.”
“It’s a blood deal that tragically condemns dozens of new ‘Ron Arads’ to their fate. It forces residents of the south to return to the harsh security reality of a barbaric and functioning terrorist organization just meters from their homes,” the letter warned.
The families continued: “The deal sacrifices strategic assets and achievements won through the blood of our loved ones. Tragically, reclaiming these gains will come at a high and painful cost. You’ve declared time and again that we will not lose this war. A blood deal and the celebrations of our enemies are far from a victory image.”
Political Developments Amid the Deal
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir announced that his Otzma Yehudit party would withdraw from the coalition government if the deal proceeds. In a tweet, Ben Gvir called the agreement a “defeatist pact” that frees dangerous terrorists and undermines the war’s achievements.
Meanwhile, significant progress has reportedly been made in negotiations between Prime Minister Netanyahu and Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Netanyahu is said to have agreed to some of Smotrich’s conditions, including a full return to military operations and tighter control over humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, the demand for the immediate return of all hostages remains unresolved.
