National Security Minister Ben Gvir Condemns Lebanon Ceasefire Deal as Historic Mistake

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has strongly criticized the emerging ceasefire agreement with Lebanon, calling it a "historic mistake" that will allow Hezbollah to recover. Speaking publicly, Ben Gvir warned that the deal grants Hezbollah the breathing room it desperately seeks to rearm and rebuild after suffering significant setbacks. He emphasized that Hezbollah is currently at its weakest point since its founding, describing the group as "beaten, battered, and bleeding," and argued that Israel should press its advantage rather than pause hostilities.

Ben Gvir dismissed claims that the Lebanese army would dismantle Hezbollah as a dangerous illusion, stating that Hezbollah members and sympathizers are deeply embedded within Lebanon's military and government. He asserted that the Lebanese army has never fought Hezbollah and will not do so in the future. The minister also recalled the 2006 UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which was hailed as a historic achievement but ultimately failed to curb Hezbollah's presence in southern Lebanon.

The minister revealed he opposed the agreement during recent cabinet discussions and vowed to continue fighting it within the government. He highlighted the high cost paid by Israeli soldiers and civilians in past conflicts with Hezbollah, arguing that Israel should only sign agreements with enemies it has decisively defeated. Ben Gvir insisted that the people of northern Israel deserve real security, not empty international promises, and called for a complete military victory over Hezbollah rather than a ceasefire.

He acknowledged that his stance might provoke criticism for opposing his own right-wing government but maintained that he has consistently voiced his views regardless of political convenience. Ben Gvir concluded by reaffirming his commitment to opposing the ceasefire deal and advocating for a total military resolution to the conflict with Hezbollah.