Israeli Finance Minister Betsalel Smotrich on Sunday defended his decision to remain in Netanyahu's government, in the face of criticism over the agreement to release hostages held by Hamas.
“I am not fleeing the battlefield simply to keep my hands clean,” declared the minister, in particular in response to Itamar Ben Gvir, who chose to resign. Smotrich stressed that his decision was motivated by a “sense of national responsibility” in the current context of war.
The minister acknowledged the deal's problematic strategic implications, saying it sends a dangerous message suggesting that “the kidnapping of Israelis brings the State of Israel to its knees.” According to him, the only appropriate response now is “to continue the fight until the total destruction of Hamas.”
Explaining his political strategy, Smotrich asserted that a resignation would paradoxically have weakened Israel's military position. He notably warned that a change of government could have led to a premature end to operations, raising the possibility that “the left would have provided Netanyahu with a safety net conditioned on ending the war without destroying Hamas.”
-The minister also revealed that he had held intense negotiations with the Prime Minister in recent days to “anchor the continuation of the war” and ensure better management of the conflict.
In a message addressed to the armed forces and the population, Smotrich reaffirmed his commitment: “We will continue with determination until victory, carried by a spirit of courage and faith.”
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