Israel calls for hostages return by military force
National Security Minister Ben-Gvir calls for the use of force (photo: Getty Images)
On Sunday, an agreement between Israel and Hamas on a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages came into force. The first three Israelis have already been returned, but one of the opponents of the document called for the return of the next people to be carried out by military force, The Times of Israel reports.
The media outlet writes that the extreme right-wing Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir issued a statement welcoming the return of three Israeli hostages to their homeland. This happened after he had voted against the deal that secured the release of the people. Moreover, he resigned today in protest.
At the same time, despite welcoming the release of the hostages, he called for the following persons to be released by military force.
"We are happy and excited about your return and await the return of the remaining hostages - through the use of [military] force, cutting off fuel [to Gaza] and stopping the flow of humanitarian aid [to the Strip] - not through surrender," Ben Gvir wrote on social network X.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already reacted to the release of the hostages. He called this day and the events "an incredibly moving day."
"I know, we all know, that they went through hell, they are going from darkness to light, they are truly exiting slavery for freedom. This moment was achieved through the sacrifice and bravery of our heroic fighters… this is a big moment, an emotional moment. A big day," Netanyahu said.
