Israeli Minister Threatens to Quit, Issues Gaza Ultimatum to Netanyahu

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz has issued an ultimatum to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, demanding a concrete plan for Gaza’s governance post-conflict by June 8. Gantz threatened to withdraw his centrist party from the coalition if his expectations are not met.

During a press briefing, Gantz emphasised the need for a detailed and agreed-upon strategy regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict. He outlined a six-point plan that includes deciding who will govern the Palestinian enclave after the war with Hamas. “While Israeli soldiers are displaying incredible bravery on the front, some of the people who sent them to battle are acting with cowardice and a lack of responsibility,” Gantz stated.

In response, Netanyahu criticised Gantz’s demands, arguing that they would lead to Israel’s defeat, abandonment of hostages, and leaving Hamas in power to create a Palestinian state. He suggested that Gantz should direct his ultimatum towards Hamas instead.

1. Gantz’s Six-Point Plan: Benny Gantz, a retired top Israeli general, proposed “six strategic goals” for the war cabinet to formulate and approve. These include bringing hostages home, toppling Hamas rule in Gaza, and establishing a temporary US-European-Arab-Palestinian civil administration for Gaza while Israel retains security control.

2. Gantz’s Ultimatum: Gantz has given Netanyahu a June 8 deadline for the war cabinet to prepare the plan, threatening to quit and withdraw his National Unity party from the emergency coalition if not met.

3. Netanyahu’s Response: Netanyahu’s office issued a scathing response, questioning Gantz’s commitment to key issues and his decision to issue a request to the prime minister instead of Hamas.

Hostage Recovery: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Saturday that they recovered the body of another hostage, Ron Binyamin, along with three other slain hostages.

5. Military Advances: Israeli troops and tanks have made further inroads into northern Gaza, resulting in several Palestinian casualties. The Israeli forces have also advanced in Rafah, a move that has raised concerns in Egypt and the US.

6. US Diplomatic Efforts: US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is set to meet Netanyahu and other senior officials in Israel. Sullivan aims to advocate for a more targeted approach against Hamas in Rafah and discuss efforts to reach a hostage deal with the Palestinian group.