Israeli National Security Minister says will quit cabinet if Gaza deal approved

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced Thursday that his party will quit the government if the newly announced Gaza ceasefire agreement is approved. In a televised statement, flanked by his party's six ministers and lawmakers, Ben-Gvir described the agreement, announced on Wednesday by Qatar, as "surrendering" to Hamas.

He said the party opposes ending the fighting in Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners, calling for continued military action until Hamas is "defeated."

Israel and Hamas have agreed on a Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal after intensive mediation by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister said on Wednesday.

The agreement includes an initial 42-day phase, during which more than 15 months of fighting in Gaza will halt, and 33 hostages held in Gaza will be released in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.