Ben Gvir condemns ceasefire talks, calls to crush Hamas completely

In Israel, on Thursday, July 10, 2025, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir harshly criticized ongoing negotiations aimed at establishing a ceasefire and releasing hostages held by Hamas. He labeled the proposed deal as 'reckless,' arguing that it would only incentivize further kidnappings of Israelis by Hamas operatives. This statement came in the aftermath of the tragic death of Master Sgt. Avraham Azulay, who was killed during an attempted abduction by Hamas terrorists in southern Gaza. Amidst heightened tensions, Ben Gvir emphasized the need for urgent action to prioritize the safety of Israeli citizens and military personnel. The incident involving Sgt. Azulay occurred when Hamas operatives emerged from a tunnel, attempting to drag him from his armored vehicle while he operated in the region as part of an IDF mission to dismantle terror infrastructure. Despite putting up a fight, Azulay was fatally shot. The swift response from nearby IDF forces resulted in the death of several Hamas attackers, successfully preventing the abduction overall. This violent event has sparked an intense debate within the Israeli government about the country’s military and political strategic direction regarding Gaza. Ben Gvir’s remarks resonate with a faction of Israeli ministers who advocate for a decisive military victory over any negotiated settlements with Hamas. He argued that engaging in negotiations with the terror organization would only serve to strengthen it and put more lives at risk. He stated, 'Enough of negotiating with a murderous terror organization and pursuing a deal that will strengthen and sustain it.' His urgent demands reflect a growing frustration among certain government officials who feel that the sacrifices made by IDF soldiers should not be compromised by diplomatic efforts aimed at establishing peace. In tandem with Ben Gvir’s views, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also expressed outrage at the potential for a ceasefire deal. He condemned any willingness from Prime Minister Netanyahu to withdraw from areas captured by the IDF, suggesting that such actions would represent a grave betrayal of the soldiers and families who have sacrificed significantly. Smotrich emphasized that withdrawing territories could lead to Hamas resuming control, rearming, and placing Israeli soldiers at greater risk in the future. This tension highlights a significant divide within the Israeli cabinet regarding how to deal with Hamas, especially in light of escalating violence and the continued threat posed to both military personnel and civilians in southern Israel. As the calls for action intensify from ministers like Ben Gvir and Smotrich, the possibility of a return to more aggressive military action versus the pursuit of negotiation remains an unresolved and contentious issue.