Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has sparked controversy by declaring that he wants to see Hamas completely destroyed, just as delicate peace talks aimed at ending the Gaza conflict continue.
Speaking in Jerusalem, Ben-Gvir said:
“I only pray that our Prime Minister will allow a complete victory in Gaza to destroy Hamas. With God’s help, we will return the hostages, and we will win a complete victory.”
His remarks come at a crucial moment as negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. The discussions reportedly focus on the final mechanisms for ending the war, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and a mutual prisoner exchange.
According to diplomatic insiders, the proposed deal includes the release of 48 Israeli hostages (20 of whom are believed to be deceased) in exchange for 1,950 Palestinian prisoners. This arrangement forms part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace roadmap, which aims to create a lasting ceasefire and a framework for rebuilding Gaza.
Under Trump’s plan, Hamas must first release all Israeli hostages, both living and dead, before Israel begins freeing 250 prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 detainees held since the 2023 attacks including women and minors.
While Washington hoped for an agreement by the end of the week, the first phase of the peace plan has yet to be implemented. Despite expectations for a pause in Israeli airstrikes, reports indicate that Israeli forces continue to target parts of Gaza, testing the patience of international mediators.
The Gaza Health Ministry, which is under Hamas control, claims that over 67,000 people have been killed since the conflict reignited following the October 7, 2023 attacks that left around 1,200 Israelis dead.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan criticized Israel’s actions, saying the country remains the “main obstacle to peace.”
“Peace is not a bird with a single wing. Placing the entire responsibility for peace on Hamas and Palestinians is neither fair nor realistic. Israel must stop its bombardment of Gaza,” Erdoğan said.
Despite repeated calls from President Trump for a full ceasefire, Israel has so far only suspended limited airstrikes, raising concerns that continued military actions could jeopardize fragile peace efforts.
As both sides exchange lists of hostages and prisoners, and world leaders push for a breakthrough, Ben-Gvir’s comments highlight the deep divisions within Israel’s leadership and the ongoing struggle to balance security demands with the global call for peace.
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