Far-right Israeli Minister Takes Stand Against Netanyahu, Opposing 'Surrender' Deal with Hamas in New Video
Since Netanyahu formed his coalition with far-right support, Ben Gvir has repeatedly gone to the Al-Aqsa compound for visits condemned by Palestinians and foreign governments
A provocative video released by a hardline Israeli minister showcased the tense Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, signaling a direct challenge to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid the Gaza war.
National Security Minister Ben Gvir, who is known for his provocative statements, urged Netanyahu not to strike a "surrender" deal with Hamas to secure the release of hostages captured on October 7.
“I have come to the most important place for Jewish people to pray for the hostages, that they come home, but not through an accord of surrender, without giving in,” Gvir said in the video quickly condemned by Palestinian politicians and Jordan.
“I pray and work hard for the prime minister to have the strength to hold firm, increase military pressure, and cut off their fuel supply so that we achieve victory,” Gvir, head of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, said while standing in front of the mosque.
The Al-Aqsa compound, situated in Jerusalem's Old City atop a hill is considered by Jews as Har Temple Mount and by Muslims worldwide as al-Haram al-Sharif (The Noble Sanctuary), holds profound religious significance.
Muslims consider it the third holiest site in Islam, following Mecca and Medina. The compound includes two key Muslim landmarks: the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, also known as the Qibli Mosque, constructed in the 8th century AD.
Many Palestinians dispute the assertion that the site holds religious significance for Jews, alleging for nearly a century that Israel and Zionists have conspired to demolish the mosque and erect a Jewish temple in its place — a proposal not endorsed by mainstream Israeli society.
As Minister of Security, Gvir exercises oversight over the country's police force. Also a pivotal coalition partner, he holds the authority to potentially strip Netanyahu of his parliamentary majority and push for early elections.
Jordan's foreign ministry denounced Gvir's "provocative move," asserting that it "demonstrates the extremist Israeli government's persistent unilateral actions and consistent violation of international laws."
Since Netanyahu established his coalition with support from the far-right in December 2022, Gvir has made frequent visits to the compound, sparking condemnation from Palestinians and foreign governments alike for exacerbating tensions.
This recent visit coincides with increasing pressure on Netanyahu from families of hostages in Gaza to approve a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The proposed deal would involve the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli custody.
Meanwhile, Netanyahu made a surprise visit to troops in southern Gaza, saying it was essential that Israel keep control of a strip of territory along the territory’s border with Egypt, just days before he was set to give a speech to the U.S. Congress.
According to the Gaza Health Ministry, Israel's military campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 38,794 individuals, most of whom are civilians.
In addition to the widespread hunger acknowledged by UN agencies in Gaza since the conflict began, doctors are also observing the rapid spread of scabies, chickenpox, skin rashes, and lice. Repeated warnings from UN agencies highlight the looming threat of cholera and potentially other severe diseases turning into epidemics.
