Lapid offers a safety net to Netanyahu, after Ben Gvir's resignation

Opposition leader Yair Lapid addressed this evening (Thursday) the statement made by Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who said he would resign from the government if the hostage deal goes through.

"I say to Benjamin Netanyahu, do not fear and do not hesitate, accept any safety net you need to carry out the hostage deal. It is more important than any disagreements we have ever had," said Lapid.

Minister Ben Gvir said, "The emerging deal is a reckless deal. It includes the release of hundreds of murderous terrorists, the return of thousands of terrorists to the northern Gaza Strip, a withdrawal from the Philadelphi Route, and a cessation of hostilities, and thus, in effect, the deal will erase the achievements of the war."

"When you see the cheers of joy from Hamas supporter Ayman Odeh, the dancing in Gaza, the celebrations in the villages of Judea and Samaria – you understand which side has surrendered in this deal. Therefore, if this reckless deal is approved and implemented, the Otzma Yehudit party will not be part of the government and will withdraw from it."