Ben-Gvir Warns Netanyahu Against Lebanon Deal

On Monday, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right National Security Minister, criticized the potential ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, calling it a “major mistake” and a lost opportunity to defeat Hezbollah. He urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reconsider the agreement, warning that “it is not too late” to halt the deal.

Ben-Gvir acknowledged the various pressures involved but emphasized that continuing military action was essential. He argued that Hezbollah, which is currently struggling, should not be allowed to dictate terms of a ceasefire. He urged Netanyahu to listen to military leaders on the ground and reiterated his call to push forward until Hezbollah was completely defeated, drawing parallels with his earlier warnings during the conflict in Gaza.

Ben-Gvir’s comments followed a report from Israel’s state-run Kan broadcaster, which revealed that Israel had agreed to a U.S.-backed ceasefire with Hezbollah. According to the report, Netanyahu was preparing to present the deal to the public, framing it as a strategic benefit for Israel rather than a concession. The ceasefire would allow Israel to maintain the right to conduct military operations along the Lebanon-Syria border.

Hezbollah leader Sheikh Naim Qassem stated last week that the group had reviewed the ceasefire proposal and responded, leaving the decision in Israel’s hands.