Israeli Minister Ben-Gvir: 'Instead of a ceasefire, we must occupy Gaza'

In Israel, far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has expressed opposition to negotiations and hostage exchange deals with Hamas, stating that they should occupy Gaza and encourage the emigration of Palestinians. 

Speaking to the Israeli newspaper Maariv, Ben-Gvir stated that sitting down at the table with Hamas would be a major mistake, adding, "The only way to get the Israeli hostages back from Gaza is through military intervention and increasing these efforts."

Claiming that they are crushing Hamas through military means, Ben-Gvir argued that it would be "a huge mistake" for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas. 

HAMAS WOULD SURRENDER WITHIN TWO WEEKS 

Furthermore, emphasizing that the entry of fuel and humanitarian aid into Gaza should be cut off, Ben-Gvir stated, "If Israel cuts off fuel and humanitarian aid from Gaza, Hamas will surrender within two weeks."

'IF WE OCCUPY GAZA TERRITORY...'

Ben-Gvir stated that by occupying Gaza, they should make Palestinians pay a price in exchange for land, adding, "If we occupy Gaza territory, stop the entry of fuel, and encourage voluntary emigration, we can achieve a total victory."

On the other hand, the Yediot Ahronot newspaper reported that Prime Minister Netanyahu is continuing negotiations for a deal with Hamas under pressure from the US, but that this situation could lead to the collapse of the government.

White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby announced that Israel will send a delegation to the ceasefire negotiations planned to be held in Doha or Cairo on Thursday, August 15, and that Qatar has committed to Hamas also sending a delegation.

 Kirby stated that they hope these talks will yield significant results and said, "We don't want to see anything get in the way of the process of getting these parties together at the table." He emphasized that the US will also be present at the meeting and that reaching a ceasefire agreement is urgent.

News Source: 12punto